November 17 2016 - Freedom From Bitterness

Bitterness is like a weed that creeps in and chokes out life. The writer of Hebrews warns, "See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no “root of bitterness” springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled" (Hebrews 12:15). The Apostle Paul exhorts, "Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you" (Ephesians 4:30-32). A heart of thankfulness repels bitterness. A Grateful heart forgives wrongs, trusts God in the moment, and fuels kindness. Put away bitterness and embrace Thankfulness to God.