“Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance” 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, NLT.
I’m just going to say it. My sister, how are you going to enjoy the relationships that God placed in your life if no one can say anything to you without your feelings being hurt? How is anyone going to sharpen you if you get upset by the smallest amount of criticism? It’s good to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit. It’s good to be sensitive to the needs of others. But being easily offended is not good. It will cause people to stand at a distance from you the same way God does because being easily offended is pride at the root, which is something God resists and stands at a distance from (see James 4:6). He gives grace to those who humble themselves because they understand that we all sin and fall short of His glory, including you (see Romans 3:23). Let your resolve be that anything harmful said about you has no power to destroy who you are to the Lord. Anything harmful done against you has no power to ruin God’s divine purpose and plan for your life (see Isaiah 54:17). He has you covered at every side with an impenetrable shield (see Psalm 5:12). Keep your heart soft toward God, but let Him help you develop thicker skin.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for speaking directly to my heart. I am overly sensitive. Everything hurts me. I humble myself right now and ask for your help. Help me understand who I am in you. Heal my heart and help develop thinker skin. I forgive everyone that has hurt me. Give me wisdom in handling difficult people and wisdom in dealing with criticism. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
