All
too often we allow a root of bitterness to wreak havoc in our emotions, destroy
our health, and affect our relationships with others. Bitterness stems from
hurt, disappointment, frustrations, discontentment, and anger; but it sends out
deep roots into our soul (Hebrews 12:15).
God's
Word not only warns us against allowing this root to splay its roots into every
area of our life, but it also gives us practical ways to exchange it for
grace-filled days (Hebrews 4:16). Some of them are:
1.
Refocus
When our mind toys with a negative
thought or two, we can refocus our reflections, save our neurons from being
adversely reprogrammed, and keep our body balanced and in good health (Proverbs
17:22). We do this by focusing only on the positive aspects of our life
(Philippians 4:8).
2.
Share God's Grace
This helps us to bear each other's
burdens and to emphasize one another's strengths, which allows us to accept
each other right where we are, and teaches us how to restore the relationship
from our side of the equation.
3.
Forgiving
The first step in sealing the
grace-filled days we all want and need is to forgive our self. If we can make restitution
for our part in the breach in our relationships, God will show us the way. This
aids us in forgiving our self for hurting someone else.
If we were the victim, and feel the pain
of the circumstances, the next step is to forgive the perpetrator of our wounds,
and to take our feelings to God for healing. Refusing to forgive does not hurt
anyone else, but it does sow the seeds of bitterness in our heart.
Prayer:
Father
God, remind us that Jesus forgave us while we were still perpetual sinners, chained
by our unbelief (John 3:18). Now, we can follow His example and forgive our
self and others. Your Word teaches us that this does not excuse or shield
anyone from the negative behavior behind their offenses, but it does free us
and others in our life from the root of bitterness.
Your
agape love is unconditional, and by Your grace we enjoy unity with Your Godhead
who abides within us. Your presence helps us to put the events of our day into a
proper viewpoint, and to discover a new perspective on the issues. We walk in
Your freedom, and we enjoy the benefits of Your forgiveness in our life as well
(Matthew 6:14).
Thought
for the Day:
Corrie
ten Boom survived a Nazi concentration camp that her family endured, which
included them because they tried to hide the threatened Jews in their
neighborhood. Prior to their arrest, her dad reminded her that God's grace
would see them through this horrific trial exactly when they needed it; and God
does the same for us, so we can receive His grace, which is always sufficient
for us, in our times of tribulation.
-
2 Corinthians 12:9; Lamentations 3:22-23, The Hiding Place
