Bitter Roots

"Each heart knows its own bitterness." -Proverbs 14:10

The Bible warns Christians of a root that can destroy in a great way - the root of bitterness. In Hebrews 12:15, the writer says, "See. . . that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many." As believers, we must forgive those who hurt or offend us. When we refuse to forgive, bitterness grows, intertwines itself around our Christian witness and chokes out our joy in Christ. Our lives become sour, and we see the world through critical eyes and speak with skeptical and sarcastic remarks. Not only is the Holy Spirit grieved, but also those we touch with the ugliness of bitterness.

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Has bitterness taken hold in your life? Perhaps you have a family member or friend who has hurt you deeply and you've refused to forgive him or her. Be careful that the anger you're holding on to doesn't lead to bitterness. Why not let God uprrot the pain and renew your bitter heart with a flowering heart of forgiveness and love?"  And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." (Ephesians 4:30-32).

-Taken from Homeschool Mom's Bible; devotions by Janet Tatman; p. 428

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