Over the years I have been part of building many fences. Sometimes I have seen how good fences can make good neighbors. On a farm a good fence can stop your neighbor’s cattle from eating your ready to harvest crop.

However, when we build fences, constructed out of offenses, we cause a lot of damage. Friend, it took the blood of Jesus Christ to break down these fences, (For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility, Eph.4:12). So, how can you prevent yourself from undoing Christ’s sacrifice?

First, don’t exchange good sense with anger. “Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense” (Proverbs 19:11 ESV). When you feel yourself getting angry you are starting to judge or blame instead of taking responsibility. Breathe, count to eight while choosing to focus on one of the following – gratitude, appreciation, care or compassion. Then let it go.

Secondly, if you keep taking things to heart, you may need to do some soul searching. Could it be that you have allowed yourself to become proud? “Do not take to heart all the things that people say, lest you hear your servant cursing you. Your heart knows that many times you yourself have cursed others” (Ecclesiastes 7:21-22 ESV).

And, finally, the next time you offend or allow yourself to become offended, please realize that you might be building a fence that can never be torn down. “A brother offended is more unyielding than a strong city, and quarreling is like the bars of a castle” (Proverbs 18:19 ESV).

Friend, do you have an “offense fence” in your life? Tear it down today by seeking first to forgive then to be forgiven.