-Strength for Today- "The Root of Bitterness. - Hebrews 12:14-15.

   Bitterness is akin to anger, which is an expression of an “emotional” and "mental” rage that’s hovering within the mind.  And if not checked, it’ll cause “physical illness” as well as “strained relationships.” Nelson Mandela said, “Bitterness is like drinking poison, hoping it’ll kill your enemy.” The problem with “poison,” as well as “bitterness,” either one can completely destroy your mind and body over time, if left unattended. 

   Adam, and his “conflicting disobedience,” caused this “emotional and mental scar.” And because of his willful act, the “mark” of Satan is “inflicted” upon the whole human race.  Bitterness is best to be “temporary,” or it’ll damage the “soul” of the bitter person.  So, sharing your “bitterness” with a “Christian counsellor,” “pastor,” or a “trusted friend,” can helps to defuse your "the root of bitterness,” which grows in our lives and seeks to destroy us. 

But there’s hope. The only true way for this “painful root to be removed,” is to have a genuine, “come to Jesus' moment, and allow the Holy Spirit to guide you through your valley, of “grudges,” and “unforgiveness,” into the “Light of the world,” where the “dark work of Satan,” no longer holds its grip, on you, and were now you can now focus instead on how to show love. 

So, until then, you or I can't be right with God and remain in “bitterness.” In fact, if we don’t forgive from our hearts, God will turn us over to the torturers, (Mattthew 18:34), God isn’t punishing us; He’s disciplining us. He knows that if we hang on to our “bitterness,” we'll only hurt ourselves and others. Hebrews 12: 14-15 says,” Pursue peace with everyone, and holiness—without it no one will see the Lord. Make sure that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no root of bitterness springs up, causing trouble and by it, defiling many.” Ephesians 4:31-32 says, “All bitterness, anger and wrath, shouting and slander must be removed from you, along with all malice.  And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ.” 

Therefore, the “root of bitterness” is a “collating concept,” brought on by Satan, for the purpose of “undermining the will of God” as it pertains to a Christian’s life of “faith,” and their “pursuit of holiness.” 

 Author: Plez Lovelady, Jr., PhD