Does the phrase "take heed to yourselves" refer to taking care that you don't offend, taking care that you are quick to forgive, or both? You should be careful not to offend, and definitely take care not to offend intentionally. Jesus said that it is impossible that offences will not come. All the carefulness in the world can't stop every offence.
I think "take heed to yourselves" has more to do with being quick and consistent in forgiving. Beware getting caught in the trap whereby you deny an offence's existence or decide you won't forgive (at least not yet).
Seven Realizations about Offence:
- I offend people easily. It takes no special talent to do this.
- People easily offend me. I don't have the thick skin others think I do.
- Moving on never accomplishes forgiveness. When I move on, offence tucks itself away in the baggage.
- If I keep talking about "it" then it's become an offence.
- It is easier to keep the offence alive than it is to bury it.
- It is easier to talk to others about the offence than it is to talk to the offender.
- Denial doesn't remove an offence. Denial only gives an offence more opportunity to putrefy and petrify.
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