Have you ever had to deal with someone who is really touchy, easily offended, or easily angered? Have you then found yourself walking on eggshells around that person or repeating the phrase over and over to yourself, “I’m not crazy, I’m not crazy?” After a while, you begin to second-guess everything you say or do. It’s exhausting. 

Scripture says that love is patient and kind, but it doesn’t require you to be a scapegoat for another’s irrational or insecure behavior. With some people, you can love them from a distance. But, with many, you must co-exist. It is important to remember that if you, in turn, are easily annoyed, angered, hurt, offended, put out, or ticked off, you are no better than those who offend you. 

Choose to walk in love before such situations arise in order to live a life of peace. When you choose to overlook an offense and to seek the good of others and not your own, you learn that you don’t need the approval of others to be okay. It’s not easy, but instead of taking offense, in as much as possible, touch others with God’s grace.