“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, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:31-32
Once we decide we are able to accept the fact that the situation which brought on our bitterness was allowed by our Father, we are ready to move into the second stage of healing. A bitter spirit can be eliminated completely through unconditional forgiveness. If we refuse to forgive those who offended us, we will not be free from bitterness.
“But how can I forgive the drunk driver who killed my son?” There is only one way: Extend the same unmerited love God has for you to the one who has wounded you by allowing the Lord Jesus to replace your hatred with His love for him. He wants to express His love through you to that person.
Only God’s love and forgiveness are big enough to tackle a bitter spirit. Our own goodwill and intentions are momentary cures. God forgives us despite our grievous sins. He holds nothing against us when we receive Christ Jesus as our Savior, Lord, and Life.
Bitterness retreats when we deliberately forgive another - regardless of how we feel - as we trust Christ to love him through us. A bitter spirit will be deprived of its nourishment - and die - as we continue to express God’s love. Forgive others as Christ has forgiven you. When you do, the joy and peace of God will be yours.
“For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive...” Psalm 86:5
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment