Before You Take Offense…Pause Here


If we were sitting across from each other, mugs in hand, soft music in the background, I’d lean in and listen. Really listen.

Because sometimes words come out wrong.

Perhaps you’ve had a recent moment where you were misunderstood. Or you said something that didn’t land the way you intended. And suddenly, a conversation turned cold or quiet.

That happened to me this week. I apologized, but the silence that followed still stings.

It reminded me how easy it is to take offense—and how hard it can be to hold space for each other instead.

In a face-to-face conversation, we’re more likely to ask questions, offer grace, and give the benefit of the doubt. It’s one of the gifts of presence. And it’s a gift I believe you offer beautifully when you let God shape your heart.

Consider

Maybe someone hurt you with their words recently.
Maybe you’re the one who said something you wish you could take back.

Either way—don’t let bitterness or shame take root.

You’re invited to…

  • Be gentle with yourself as you grow
  • Extend grace even when it’s not returned
  • Let Jesus soften your heart, not harden it

You’re not alone in this. You’re growing, healing, and learning. And God is with you through it all.

Reflect

“Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”
Ephesians 4:31-32 (NLT)

This week, ask God to help you live out this verse—not perfectly, but faithfully.

What might change if kindness and compassion were your first response?

Where can you let forgiveness take the lead?

🙏🏻 May I pray for you?

Dear God, You know how easy it is to feel hurt or misunderstood. When offense rises, help [first name] respond with grace. When [first name]’s words fall short, give them the courage to make it right. Fill [first name]’s heart with compassion, even when it’s hard. Shape [first name] into someone who speaks truth with tenderness, forgives quickly, and loves deeply, just like you. Amen.

Like you, I’m pressing into Jesus, learning from my mistakes, and moving forward—hopefully with more grace and empathy than I had yesterday.

By the way, thank you for responding to my email last week and allowing me to pray with you. What an incredible gift!

Kirsten D Samuel LLC

I empower faith-based women like you to recover well after discovering their husband's or significant others struggle with the dark places on the internet. Every Monday you'll receive encouragement and other carefully curated content to help you heal and find the freedom you desire.

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