There are things in my life that drain my emotional energy. Two in particular that, as a pastor, are drainers. First is those who offend and second those who are easily offended. I am not referencing any situations, I'm just writing. I was talking to a pastor the other day and this is a result of that conversation. We understand that in this world there will be offenses, but you don't have to get offended. First those who offend. The Scripture says, offenses will come but "woe" to those who cause them. It further talks about those who offend little ones (see Matthew 18:6,7) So be careful not to be offensive. If you know someone is offended at you Matthew 5:23, you are to go and make it right; then come to God. Second those who get offended. I have been offended. It is much easier to forgive and go on than to carry the weight and burden of offense. There are times when we can't get past it. Matthew 18 lays out the process of restoring relationships -- go to them, if they won't listen then take a witness . . . The goal is reconciliation not simply to tell someone off. The church is the final step in the process. So how can we stay away from offense? Be mature. Be forgiving. Give others the benefit of the doubt. If there is a question and you can't get over it: don't gossip about it, go to the other party. Live in and love the Word of God -- Psalms 119:165 Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.