In a world engulfed by a culture of offense, where every word and action is scrutinized for potential offense, it’s easy to lose sight of a more profound truth: while the world may be preoccupied with what offends us, we should be more concerned about what offends God. This blog delves into the importance of prioritizing God’s standards over societal norms, urging readers to align their lives with His teachings rather than succumb to the ever-changing tides of offense.
The Culture of Offense
In recent years, society has witnessed a surge in sensitivity to perceived slights, injustices, and microaggressions. Terms like “cancel culture” and “virtue signaling” have become commonplace, highlighting a growing trend of holding others accountable for words or actions that are deemed offensive or inappropriate. While advocating for social justice and equality is undoubtedly important, the relentless pursuit of offense has led to a climate of divisiveness and hostility, where genuine dialogue and understanding are often sacrificed at the altar of outrage.
The Forgotten Offense
Amidst the clamor of societal sensitivities, it’s crucial to remember a deeper concern: what offends God. Throughout the Bible, God’s Word provides clear guidance on the behaviors and attitudes that are displeasing to Him. From pride and arrogance to injustice and immorality, Scripture outlines a standard of righteousness that stands in stark contrast to the values of the world. Yet, in our quest to champion causes and defend our beliefs, we often neglect to consider whether our actions align with God’s will.
Aligning with God’s Standards
As followers of Christ, our ultimate allegiance should be to God and His kingdom. This means prioritizing His standards over the ever-changing whims of society. Rather than seeking validation and approval from the world, we are called to live lives that reflect the character of Christ, demonstrating love, compassion, and humility in all that we do. This requires a willingness to confront our own biases and prejudices, humbly submitting ourselves to God’s transformative power and allowing His Word to shape our hearts and minds.
A Call to Reflection
In a world that is increasingly fixated on being offended, let us not forget the offense that truly matters: offending God. Instead of being consumed by the latest social media outrage or cultural controversy, let us turn our hearts toward heaven and seek to live lives that are pleasing to Him. May we cultivate a spirit of humility and discernment, striving to align our thoughts, words, and actions with God’s eternal truth. And may we find solace in the knowledge that, ultimately, it is God’s approval that we should seek above all else.
Scripture Inspiration
- Ephesians 4:29: “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”
- Colossians 3:2: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”
A Prayer for Reflection
Heavenly Father,
As we navigate a world consumed by offense and sensitivity, grant us the wisdom and discernment to prioritize Your standards above all else. Help us to align our thoughts, words, and actions with Your will, seeking to honor You in all that we do. May we be a beacon of light in a world shrouded in darkness, demonstrating Your love, compassion, and grace to all whom we encounter. In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.
In Jesus name I pray Amen
Amen!!
If only the whole world would read this. We divide ourselves by constantly incriminating other people for what we deem offensive not seeing how offensive we are being to our Lord and Savior.