Here’s a question worth pondering: When is it truly reasonable to be offended? I’ll let you consider that for yourself. But let me offer this—if God loves you, what could be so important that it’s worth being offended? That perspective changes everything. We strive to become unoffendable, not out of weakness, but because it positions us to win. How else can you restore your marriage, build stronger bonds with your children and grandchildren, or strengthen your church community? How else can we hope to heal our nation? The truth is, we make genuine progress only when we refuse to let offense take root in our hearts.

Many of us know what it’s like to be swept up by anger—maybe you’ve said something in the heat of the moment, written an email you regret, or spoken harshly to a loved one or a colleague. We all have moments we wish we could take back. But here’s the other side of the coin: when you choose to release blame and extend forgiveness, when you practice love even when it’s hard, you allow the life and power of Heaven to move through you.

My friend, in Mark 11, Jesus teaches, “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.” It’s easy to overlook this: Forgiveness is essential. Jesus makes it clear—if you want your prayers answered, let go of your grudges. Forgive, so that you too may receive forgiveness from your Father in Heaven.