In this generation, the devil moves quietly but craftily, like a thief in the night, stealing joy and peace from many hearts. Satan’s tactics are not always loud or obvious — they come dressed in offence, bitterness, and unforgiveness, trapping even the strongest souls in cycles of hurt and resentment.
Have you ever wondered why some relationships, whether in family, friendship, or marriage, seem to be caught in endless storms of pain? Why do old wounds reopen, bitterness grow, and forgiveness seem impossible? The answer lies in a spiritual battle waged beneath the surface — a battle where the devil’s cunning and wily strategies seek to imprison us in self-made cages of offence.
The Holy Bible warns us about the ‘weapons formed against us’ (Isaiah 54:17), and offence is one of the deadliest. It is like poison hidden in a beautiful cup — once it enters the heart, it spreads silently, destroying trust and love. Offence makes us slaves to the past, chaining us to memories of hurt that keep us from moving forward.
In Nigerian culture, we often say, “A wound that refuses to heal becomes a permanent scar.” This scar is the bitter fruit of unforgiveness, which Satan cultivates expertly. When we hold grudges, we hand over the keys of our hearts to the enemy, allowing him to reign where God desires peace.
But there is hope. The same power that Satan uses to bind us is overcome by the love and grace of Christ. Breaking free begins with guarding your heart fiercely. Be vigilant over the doorways of your mind and emotions. The Bible says in Ephesians 6:11, “Put on the full armour of God, so that you can stand against the devil’s schemes.”
How do we stand? By choosing forgiveness — not as a feeling, but as a deliberate act of the will. Forgiveness does not excuse the hurt, but it refuses to let bitterness rule. It releases the captives and breaks the chains of offence. As Apostle Paul wrote, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice” (Ephesians 4:31).
The battle is real, but victory is assured. To anyone stuck in the prison of hurt, remember: no matter how deep the wound, God’s healing is greater. No offence is too heavy for His grace to lift. Let go of the weapons of offence today. Guard your heart, nurture peace, and watch as broken relationships begin to mend.
In a world thirsty for love and reconciliation, refusing offence is a revolutionary act — a stand against the devil’s silent siege. May we rise, armed with forgiveness and love, and reclaim the joy and unity meant for every heart.
– Inah Boniface Ocholi writes from Ayah – Igalamela/Odolu LGA, Kogi state.
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