Offence – The Adventures of Lady Esther & Mr. Doug

I feel the aura of disgust from you.
I have become a despised thing.

Loneliness consumes my very being; the silence is deafening.
I am utterly alone among many. Oh, wretched man that I am!
When will I be accepted?

When will this distain for my very presence serve it’s sentence out in full and declare me free from the chains of contempt?

My face I cannot behold, for it is veiled in shame.
My hope has poured out of me as a fine wine has spilled upon the dust of the earth and is no more.

But You Lord saw me and had compassion for me.
You have rescued me from this pit of despair.
You have not turned Your face from me.
You alone are my salvation.

You alone have redeemed me from disdain.
This shame has been lifted from me in Your love.

My accusers are no more.

Thoughts from a painter about: “O-Fence” (offenses)

Offenses will come to all of us. If left unchecked, they can build a fence of hurt accompanied with a cynical entrusting view on life. We become carpenters – adding a picket for each life event and person that has let us down until we are completely walled in spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and relationally.

Here are some trade secrets that have helped me:

POWER WASH IT! Look at the “O-Fence”. Blast it with high pressure! Pour your heart out passionately to God about the injustice. If you created the problem, and we usually do, ask forgiveness… Psalm 62:8. Also, vent with a wise objective friend.

LET IT DRY! Give it some time to gain perspective. This happens in our quiet places with God.

PAINT IT! Cover it in God’s Word. The event never goes away. How we respond to it, is our choice.

Scriptures: Ephesians 4:31-32; 1 John 1:9; Luke 17:3-4; Matthew 6:14-15; Colossians 3:13

If you have constructive ways that you have dealt with offense, please share. I know it will help others.

~ Mr. Doug

Category: Offence

SHUNNED

Peacemaker

O-Fence