by Cathy Vinson

But what about you and I? Do we offend? How far does Jesus want us to push on an issue when we encounter resistance? We may even feel for such a high cause we are justified in pushing. But God protects that person's freedom of response and doesn't condone violating it. A few Scriptures may help us with this.

• 1 Samuel 17:28-30. David and Eliab. Eliab is offended by his youngest brother's probing and says, "Why have you come down here?...I know how conceited you are and how wicked your heart is...' To this David replies, 'What have I done? Can't I even speak?' He (David) then TURNED AWAY to someone else...
  

• Matthew 15:12-14. Jesus and the Pharisees. When the disciples ask Jesus, "Do You know the Pharisees were offended when they heard this?," He responded, ...LEAVE them alone; they are blind guides.
  
  
• Luke 9:52-54. Jesus and a Samaritan village. As the disciples went ahead of Christ and found the people there did not welcome Him, "...they went to ANOTHER town."

In each case, there was no further pushing the issue at that time.

We all desire open hearts to await us. At such a time "our peace can rest upon a man of peace." If not, we are to "let our peace return to you (Luke 10:6);" it's time to pass by and go where welcome. Let us respect the juncture we are at with people and not push or force a resistant heart. This is not our territory, but now rests with the Holy Spirit. Through His softenening a day may come where you (or another) will not have to pass by, but will pass THROUGH.

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"Do not resist an evil
person ..."

(Matthew 5:39)