Author Darlene J. Conard

As I lay in bed, the stillness of the night wrapped around me like a heavy blanket sleep completely eluded me. Countless thoughts swirled chaotically in my mind, each vying for my attention. The soft ticking of the clock on the wall punctuated the silence, reminding me of the hours slipping away. It was in that moment that I clearly heard the Lord speak to me, saying, “Offense is a blessing blocker and a destroyer of destiny.” God had a storehouse of blessings for me, and being offended isn’t worth losing what God had in store for me! I got out of bed to write about offenses.

Proverbs 18:19 illustrates the deep impact of grievances among brethren, declaring, “A brother offended is more unyielding than a strong city, and quarreling is like the bars of a castle.” This vivid imagery conveys the fortified nature of a relationship wounded by offense, suggesting that once trust is breached, it becomes as difficult to penetrate as the walls of a mighty fortress.

Similarly, in His teachings, Jesus conveyed the inevitability of offenses in human relationships, stating, “It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come!”— Luke 17:1 KJV. Here, He acknowledges the reality of conflicts and misunderstandings that are bound to arise, while emphasizing the serious consequences for those who facilitate such discord among themselves. A year ago, I experienced a profound moment of revelation that truly liberated me from my pain. In that stillness, God’s voice gently resonated within me, offering comfort and wisdom. He said, “Darlene, you don’t need to burden yourself with the opinions others hold or the way they choose to treat you. Release those worries to Me, and trust that I will handle it in My own way.” His answer filled my heart with peace, reminding me to let go of what I cannot control so that I wouldn’t block my blessing or destroy my destiny.

I’ve come to a profound realization: if we are not vigilant and intentional, we risk becoming like those who hurt us. It’s all too easy to let the malice and negativity of others shape our behavior and mindset. We must guard against this transformation, for we do not want to morph into something unrecognizable, driven by the harmful intentions of those around us.

“If God be for us, who can be against us?” — Romans 8:31 KJV

One day God said, “Darlene, when I say, yes, then who can say, no?” When we know that God is on our side and we have His approval, the opinions of others lose their significance. Their judgments and criticisms fade away in the light of His unwavering support and love, reminding us that our true worth comes from Him alone.

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This may not be republished or used without the author’s written consent. Darlene J. Conard is also affiliated with Glory Carrier Ministries.

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