I embarked on a trip sometime ago. While getting ready for the trip, I realised I had kept some stuff in my car that I won’t be needing for the trip. I decided to get them out. My wife asked why I did that. I simply told her; “I have to travel light.” That reply opened my eyes to the truth about destiny. I realised if I must go far and fulfil destiny, I need to get rid of weights. I need to travel light.
Friend, you need to travel light. There are some weights that would hinder you on the journey of destiny (Hebrews 12:1). Offence is one of them. Offence is a killer of destiny. The relationships that are closest to you and have been ordained to bless you the most would be the easy target of offence. Offences would always come, but you must refuse to be offended (Luke 17:1). It is a battle that you need to stand your ground against (2 Corinthians 2:11, 1 Peter 5:8-9).
When you start doubting the relationships that you once promoted, when you start reconsidering the relationship that once blessed you, because of unmet expectations; offence is already setting in (Matthew 11:3). The target of offence is not the offender but the offended.
John the Baptist introduced Jesus as the Messiah, so he expected Jesus to check on him while in prison. He was disappointed that Jesus did not (Matthew 11:2). He took offence in that. What did you take offence in? That your pastor did not remember to call you on your birthday? That your friend forgot your wedding anniversary? Or someone behaved in a certain way towards you?
Be quick to forgive the offender and let it go. John the Baptist might not have lost his head if not for offence (Matthew 14:1-12). What have you lost because of offence? God’s grace, opportunities, relationship access, your peace, etc? It’s not worth it! You must keep your head and oil in destiny; you must pursue peace (Hebrews 12:14).
You cannot be offended and anointed at the same time. Offences will short-circuit the flow of grace in your life. It will lift the shield of divine protection. The Holy Spirit cannot flow freely and easily through an offended heart. A wounded spirit is too heavy to carry (Proverbs 18:14). Don’t lose vital relationships because of offences. Refuse to be offended! You need to travel light.
‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria