Offenses (Proverbs 18:19)

I will be the first to admit that I can easily be offended, and there are times when it is harder to win my love back than others.

"A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city, and their contentions separate them like the bars of a castle." Proverbs 18:19, Amplified

There is something about offending family; it is like a line has been crossed that should have never been ventured toward. This verse, however, can be more applicable to our Christian family than even our biological family.

With a brotherhood comes a certain respect and trust. When those are violated, respect and trust must be reestablished. I have offended my Christian brothers with certain things I have said or done. It hurts, because the relationship that we once had has been altered for the worse all because of me.

Think of a person who just bought a brand new house. The neighborhood is nice and clean. But over the years, the quality of the neighborhood goes down. Soon the house is being broken into. Wouldn't it be stupid of the person who owns the house not to put some sort of security into the house like an alarm or security door or even bars? Of course it would be stupid. He now knows the dangers and he must protect himself. The same can be said of human nature. If we become offended, that offense often involves hurt as well. Walls and fences are erected as friendships and bonds are tested. If you decide that you need to make a decision that may jeopardize your brotherhood, be ready for a fight to win your brother back.