On several occasions I have sensed an ill spirit toward me, and had no idea as to why. It seemed the only path toward rectification was to ask, “Have I done something to offend you?” In most instances the reply has been, “No, I’m sorry, I’m just having a bad day; it is nothing that you have done.” What a relief to clear the air, to know that I had not unwittingly committed some offense against a friend.
Did you know that the Bible, the Word of God, declares that you and I have offended God? The problem is that He is holy (sinless) and we are sinful. “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness. (Romans 1:18)” The problem is universal, and serious. “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23)”
What ultimately happens to those who have offended God? The Bible describes their end: “But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. (Revelation 21:8)” The Psalmist says, “Surely thou didst set them in slippery places: thou castedst them down into destruction. How are they brought into desolation, as in a moment! they are utterly consumed with terrors. (Psalms 73:18-19)” Many try to avoid the horrors by simply telling themselves that this cannot be true; there is no God, no judgment, no Hell—but disbelief does not make the truth go away.
My friend, it is true, you have offended God; you have made yourself the enemy of the Almighty (James 4:4). If you remain as you are, you will spend eternity in the “Lake of fire, prepared for the Devil and his angels.” (Matthew 25:41). But God, in His mercy, has provided an option! “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. (John 3:16-17)”