By“Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.” — Proverbs 17:9 NIV
As long as there are people on this earth, offences are bound to come. Jesus knew this, so He said in Luke 17:1 that “…it is impossible that no offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come!”
So while we cannot prevent ourselves from getting offended, we choose how to go about them when they come. Some choose to forgive when the offender decides to change. Others decide not to even talk about it. But what does the Bible say?
Proverbs 17:9 teaches us that the one who fosters love will cover over an offence. In other words, a fosterer of love responds to offence in such a way that it’ll improve upon his love for the other fellow; and that involves two things: forgiveness and correction (speaking the truth in love).
Forgiveness is a command to the child of God, not an option. Colossians 3:13 says,
bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.
Forgive those who offend you without hesitation, and note that no exceptions are attached to the scripture above.
Even if the offender chooses not to mind you, forgive the person from your heart. Don’t keep offences within it, or it’ll affect your life because out of the heart comes all the issues of life (Proverbs 4:23).
Another activity to do in order to cover over an offence is to speak the truth in love. Love protects but isn’t silent on issues that must be settled. If you love the offender, be bold enough to tell him his fault against you.
Love protects but isn’t silent on issues that must be settled.
Avoid waiting for the person to admit his fault before asking you for forgiveness. Sometimes, he may not even know that he offended you.
Speak up, even if it’s so uncomfortable to do. It’s better to endure discomfort to see an offence settled than to keep quiet. If you don’t do it, you’ll only see that this fellow will keep repeating the same fault.
Love your family, friends and people, and focus on obeying the scriptures.
You’re a blessing.
Prayer
Oh God, help me to cover over an offence by fostering love according to your principles in Jesus’ name, Amen!
Devotional Code: KGD // 2022 – 222
Also Read: Keep your spiritual fervour
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