Bitterness does not develop overnight.  It begins with a little weed seed of dislike and progresses through a series of stages over a period of time.  If it isn’t uprooted with forgiveness it will continue to grow into resentment.  Resentment will become hatred and hatred turns into bitterness.

Bitterness is the root of murder, whether it comes in the form of taking a life or assassinating someone’s character through gossip.  It will rob you of love, joy, peace, contentment, and ultimately, everything that makes life worth living.  It is a waste of time and energy.  Bitterness is a poison that paralyzes your purpose and prevents you from maximizing your potential.  The key to releasing it is forgiveness.  Let it go! 

 Matthew 6:14 (Paraphrased)

Jesus said, “If you forgive others, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” 

Practical Application and Assignments:

Someone said, “Bitterness is like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die.”  Bitterness is your enemy.  It is not usually covert.  It sneaks up on you because its roots subconsciously lie so far beneath the surface.  It must be cut out and destroyed at the root source.

• Don’t drink the poison.  Identify any resentful attitude.  Uncover it before it becomes a root of bitterness.  
• Make a decision to forgive and let go of the offense.  Go to the person who offended you and make restitution if it is possible and necessary to heal the relationship.  You will know you have truly extended forgiveness when you can ask God to forgive the person who hurt you.  Ask God to forgive you for any bitterness.
• Don’t waste your life.  Sincerely pray this prayer: “Oh God, help me to do those things in this life that I will wish I had done when I stand before you.”

“Great peace have they which love Thy law: and nothing shall offend them.” Psalm 119:165

Follow @danagammill