ROOTS THAT EMBITTER
See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many. – Hebrews 12:15
The root of bitterness is a deep resentment which is, at the same time, accompanied with sadness and pain. It comes as a consequence of not being able to forgive. The root of bitterness makes a person capable of forgetting all of the good and thoughtful things God and other people have done for them.
Consequences of bitterness:
- Bitterness has the potential of destroying our health. It is the cause of various diseases: depression, diabetes, migraines, ulcers, lack of appetite, etc.
- Bitterness has the capacity to rob the happiness and joy out of life.
- The danger of losing loved ones and sincere friends.
- The danger of living in an economic misery, which eliminates creativity and the motivation to reach large companies.
- It can stop you from receiving God’s blessings, as this blinds your understanding and moves you away from God.
To eliminate the root of bitterness we must:
Repent because of the anger and judgment we feel against those who have hurt us.
“This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.” – Matthew 18:35 NIV
- Decide to forgive and also ask God and the people who have hurt us for forgiveness.
- Make a list of the people that have hurt or robbed us.
- Express forgiveness and renounce every root of bitterness with our mouths, being specific with the names and things that have hurt us in the past.
- We cannot waste our pain.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. – Romans 8:28
Think about it:
How can you deal with bitterness? Is it possible that you carry bitterness, because you have been unable to forgive?
Make a list of people or situations that have hurt you and forgive today.