In Luke 17, Jesus teaches us that temptations and offenses are bound to come. This is a powerful reminder that no matter who we are or where we are, we will experience hurt and disappointment. You will offend people. People will offend you. It’s part of living in a world full of human relationships. Jesus’s words encourage us to prepare for these moments rather than be surprised by them. Instead of holding on to grudges or frustrations, we are called to forgive. Forgiveness isn’t just an option—it’s a necessary part of maintaining peace and reflecting God’s love.
When forgiveness isn’t a core value, you risk losing valuable relationships. There are no perfect people, so if you let offenses grow into bitterness and resentment, relationships can break down, leaving you worse off. When you hold onto hurts, it blocks your ability to move forward, and life becomes a cycle of unresolved conflicts. Instead, master “the art of conflict resolution”. Take time to understand the issues and work with the other person to resolve them quickly. By making forgiveness your foundation, you build stronger, lasting relationships that can withstand life’s inevitable challenges.
As a watchman with the mission of guiding your world toward a better future, you simply can’t afford to cling to unproductive feelings about others’ actions. You don’t have the time to dwell on past offenses or hold grudges. Keep your focus on Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith. Make it a priority to cultivate skills in clear communication and negotiation. No matter the circumstances, let love be your driving force. When love and forgiveness anchor your responses, you’re equipped to create a future rooted in grace, purpose, and positive change.
