From Matthew 15
1. As you walk in your gifting, as you do what God has called you to do, you are going to offend some people. Now offending others is not our goal. But your unwavering determination will be offensive to others. Your joy will offend others. Your peace in the storm will offend others. Your success is gonna drive some people mad. But you cannot stop what God has called you to do and try to appease those who are offended. It’s a distraction. It’s the enemy’s attempt to take your energy and time away from what God has called you to do. He wants to get you in strife and self-doubt.
The Pharisees were offended with Jesus. He did not go back to them and explain what He meant. He did not try to make them understand His point of view. He didn’t defend himself to them. He did not change His message. But when His disciples asked for clarification it was given.
2. You will be tempted to get offended with others. This too is just another scheme of the enemy. Things will not always go the way you want in ministry. You will be tempted to blame others. You will be tempted to believe people are out to get you. You will misinterpret what others say and mean. Determine in your heart right now when the spirit of offense tries to rise up within you that you will choose love. You will choose to believe the best of people.
This Gentile woman did not allow a perceived insult, nor rejection prevent her from receiving her blessing.
3. What you have in your hands become more than enough when you put it in Jesus’ hands. If God has called you to do something, he will provide. When Jesus asked his disciples to feed the multitude, they reminded Jesus of their lack. Jesus’ question was simply, “what do you have?” If we give Jesus what we have no matter how insignificant it seems, He multiplies it and you will find you have more than enough.
As you minister don’t allow your perceived lack to limit you. Trust God’s ability to provide!
Then the disciples came and said to Him, “Do You know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this statement?” But He answered and said, “Every plant which My heavenly Father did not plant shall be uprooted. Let them alone; they are blind guides of the blind. And if a blind man guides a blind man, both will fall into a pit.” (Matthew 15:12-14 NASB)