Let It Go

by Scott Harper

“When we retain an offense in our hearts, we filter everything through it.”

John Bevere

December 24, 2025

Sitting on her porch swing, Evelyn shouted to her neighbor, Jo-Jo. “Hey girl!”

Jo-Jo waved but said nothing as she walked up the stairs to visit her upbeat friend.

Evelyn asked, “Why you gettin’ home so late?”

“My stupid boss. He threw a surprise party for us.” Jo-Jo bemoaned as she plopped down.

Evelyn leaned in. “Remind me why you dislike him so much. You complain about that rascal all the time. Everyone says he’s the nicest guy.”

“Yeah. He’s nice. But don’t you remember what he said about me being late when I first started working there? He’s been nice ever since, but I know what he’s really like. He’s just waitin’ to fire me.”

Evelyn shook her head. “Haven’t you worked there for eight years?”

~~~~~~~~~~

Continuously filtering others’ actions through our own lens of unforgiveness distorts our sight, not theirs.

Sharper Leader:

1.      Can you think of someone who has intentionally or unintentionally offended you that you still harbor resentment towards?

o   Action Step: Write down how that offense has negatively impacted how you view the world or hindered other relationships.  

 

2.      Was the offense so unforgivable that you should ruminate on it forever?

o   Action Step: Seek help in finding a solution to the pain, frustration, fear, and/or anger that prevents you from peacefully living your life.

 

3.      Do you want to allow someone else to have that much power over you?

o   Action Step: Pray for the strength to forgive them. With God’s help and professional guidance, if needed, forgive them and live your life to the fullest.

 

Recommended book: The Bait of Satan: Living Free from the Deadly Trap of Offense by John Bevere.    

 

Before next week’s The Sharper Minute: Whether you tell that person or not, pick one person to forgive. This holiday season is the perfect time to practice forgiving.

Merry Christmas!

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