Bitterness

Indeed it was for my own peace that I had great bitterness; But You have lovingly delivered my soul from the pit of corruption, For You have cast all my sins behind Your back – Isaiah 38:17.

                     We cannot both love God as well as be bitter with anyone. If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen? - 1 John 4:20. If we hold bitterness in our heart, we are liars. But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic - James 3:14,15.

                   Bitterness affects us physically and also causes trouble to others. It will destroy our relationship with God and others. Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord: looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled - Hebrews 12:14,15. It will give place to the devil in our life. Be angry, and do not sin: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil - Ephesians 4:26,27.

                      Holding bitterness toward anyone prove that we are walking in the flesh and not in the spirit. We should forgive others just like Christ had forgiven us. Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you - Ephesians 4:31,32. 

PRAYER: Dear Lord, Help us not to hold bitterness toward anyone. Fill our heart with Your love. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.