A Root of Bitterness

“Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: Looking diligently lest any man fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled.” Hebrews 12:14-15

Bitterness is an insidious sin. It operates beneath the surface of your soul, spreading a root system of sickness and death, both physically and spiritually. Often beginning with an offense or hurt from a close friend that goes unchecked and unforgiven, BITTERNESS creates a cloud of discouragement and sorrow.

Here are some suggestions on how to deal with bitterness. If you know without a doubt YOU are free from all traces of this emotion, you may know someone else you could help with this information.

1) List ways the person has offended you.

2) Consider and list your own faults.

3) List things for which God has forgiven you.

4) View the person as a tool in the hand of God for your own maturing.

5) Ask God to forgive you for this bitterness.

6) Go to the person and ask his forgiveness.

7) Actually forgive the person by releasing him from any further responsibility toward you, and release the invisible grip you have on him.

PRAY: “Father, help me to see my brother and sister through Your forgiving eyes. Amen.”