Is It Really Worth the Fuss?

One of the most important proverbs, at least in my view, is found in Proverbs 19:11.  Let’s read it now:

 The discretion of a man makes him slow to anger,
And his glory is to overlook a transgression.

We live in a world that is increasingly politically correct and seems to “celebrate” the fact that someone can be offended.  Simply saying words that others interpret as being insensitive or insulting leads to fines and even the loss of a career.  Is this really worth the fuss?  As followers of Jesus we are called to a different standard.  We are called to overlook a transgression.  We are called to be slow to anger.  No, we are not called to pretend that we are not hurt when someone genuinely hurts us.  We are not called to simply “look the other way” no matter what the offense.  But we are called to overlook many of the things that people say, and often what they do, when though what has been said or done is insensitive, does not rise to the level where a response is needed.

Much of what is cited today as “offensive” is simply not worth the fuss.  Instead of getting upset and holding grudges, just overlook it.  Your life will go so much smoother and your production of stomach acid will drastically decrease.  If you really have to do “something” about what you’ve been told, then pray for the person who has “offended” you.  Praying for him or her will provide a true benefit…of course, don’t pray that their tongue falls out or that they die a painful death…that’s not the kind of prayer I’m suggesting.

When you overlook a transgression, you can “look over” to Jesus for your help.  He’ll be there!

In wisdom,
Eric