Monday

The Spirit drove Jesus out into the desert, and he remained in the desert for forty days, tempted by Satan. 

Mark 1:12

Jesus was tempted even though he was following the direction of the Holy Spirit. He didn’t get tempted because he was apart from God’s will but because he was in it. We should avoid situations that lead us into unnecessary temptation but we will never be able to avoid it completely. 

Inevitably, we will be offended by others and tempted to harbor the offense, internalize it, and allow it to live in our hearts. If we allow it in, we risk becoming entitled, bitter, and self-centered people. The fruit of living with an offended heart is never good.

Pray today for the grace to recognize the temptation to harbor and nurture offense. Pray for a humble heart that is not so sensitive and easily offended.