Bitterness

“Pursue peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and by it many be defiled; that there be no immoral or godless person like Esau, who sold his own birthright for a single meal. For you know that even afterwards, when he desired to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no place for repentance, though he sought for it with tears.” Hebrews 12:14-17

Physicians believe much of the depression and unresolved emotional problems we face are due to suppressed bitterness within our hearts. God is very specific in His exhortation of bitterness: “See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and by it many be defiled” (Heb. 12:15).

One of Satan’s favorite tactics is to sow tiny seeds of bitterness in the hearts and minds of God’s people. When we become bitter, the satisfaction of “getting even” for the hurts we feel is fleeting. Bitterness leads to an endless trap of emotional ups and downs, of wondering what others are thinking, and of self-abasement. Peter tells us Satan is a persistent enemy with only one goal - to destroy, nullify, and render useless the witness and testimony of the child of God. Bitterness is a potent weapon.

If Satan can keep you at odds with others, then he has achieved his goal. No one can love the Savior in purity of heart while harboring a spirit of bitterness. When thoughts of bitterness arise, immediately place them in subjection to Jesus Christ and steep your emotions in God’s grace. Ask God to help you deal with your bitterness and set you free.

It is one thing to be angry for a moment - it is something else to allow that anger to grow.