Don’t Read If You’re Easily Offended

Don’t Read If You’re Easily Offended

Freedom comes when we stop rehearsing the reasons we can’t and start walking with the One who can.

Well… you’re still reading. I’ll take that as a good sign.

Henry Cloud once said,

We all face problems. Relationships break down, circumstances disappoint us, and life hands us challenges we didn’t ask for. But how we respond to those moments can either lead to growth or keep us stuck.

Some people respond with wisdom—they face the problem, learn from it, and move forward. Others slip into a cycle, repeating the same choices and ending up in the same place again and again.

And this is where the victim mentality creeps in. It’s subtle but powerful. It whispers, “Whatever the circumstance, the relationship problem, or the setback—it’s not my fault, so I don’t need to change.” It feels comforting in the moment, but in reality, it becomes a trap.

The Trap of Staying Stuck

A victim mindset can feel like…

Sitting in a parked car with the keys in your pocket, but insisting traffic is the reason you’re not moving.

Living in an unlocked prison cell, but refusing to walk out because you don’t like the warden.

Carrying a backpack full of bricks, but insisting someone else put them there, so you’ll just keep carrying them until they take them out.

Refusing to own your part leaves you stuck. You can’t move forward to enjoy relationships or live in the freedom Jesus offers when you’re still rehearsing the reasons you “can’t.”

God’s Way Out

Here’s the good news: God’s conviction isn’t condemnation—it’s an invitation. Romans 2:4 says His kindness leads us to repentance.

The best translation for repentance is a changed mindset. He’s not interested in shaming you; He’s committed to leading you out of where you are, into the life He’s prepared for you.

In Christ, you’re loved as you are—but you’re also loved too much to be left where you are. Galatians 5:1 reminds us, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.” That’s freedom from the blame cycle, from destructive patterns, and from the lie that you’re powerless.

The question is: will you let Him lead you out?

Reflection

Where have I been more focused on blaming than on changing?

What “pattern” in my life is God inviting me to see through His eyes?

How might my life look different if I trusted His goodness enough to take the first step forward?

Prayer
Lord, thank You that Your conviction is a gift that leads to freedom. Show me where I’ve been stuck in blame or self-pity. Give me courage to own my part, faith to follow Your lead, and humility to change. Thank You that You love me as I am—and love me enough to lead me into the fullness of Your life in me and with me. Amen.