“It [love] is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”- 1 Corinthians 13:5
Today Bill Hybels discusses the first category to help us respond to people who have offended us (Chapter 5 of Simplify).
CATEGORY 1: Minor Offenses. Pastor Hybels defines minor offenses as “wrongdoing” that is nothing more than a slight. The offended party, however, has lost track of reality and is unable to see the other person’s perspective on the issue. The offended party feels victimized.
The author states it is helpful to right-size the impact of a Category 1 minor offense, taking a step back from the perceived offense in order to view that offense with greater objectivity. Doing so simplifies our interpersonal world and keeps our relationship slates clean. Pastor Hybels writes:
“If you have enough of God’s grace filling your heart, you can see the situation in its proper perspective.”
On the other hand, an overly-strong response to a Category 1 offense should rouse our curiosity. Why did such a minor slight trigger a disproportionate response? Or is there a reason we’re too embarrassed to admit? In either situation, a minor offense can serve as a directional arrow, pointing us to an area where we need to grow.
Today’s question: What minor offenses have elicited a disproportionate response from you? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Legitimate wounds”
