Symptoms of Bitterness

“Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear. 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.” Ephesians 4:29-31

Like an infection left untreated, bitterness spreads as a cancer when we refuse to deal with its presence. It spills over into our emotions. We can become easily irritated; we may become sullen and sour; or often we may find ourselves on the verge of tears. We can slide into depression and despair over little things. Our outlook can lean to the pessimistic side. Cynicism and skepticism reign.

Bitterness also can seep into our relationships. The atmosphere in our homes becomes volatile; our children set us on edge. Friendships are stained; isolation advances. Likewise, it taints our work. We are seldom happy at what we do. Our productivity decreases; our creativity diminishes; our orientations toward detail fades. The more the infection of bitterness spreads, the greater our sense of isolation. We tend to withdraw from new ventures or relationships because we fear being hurt again. The most noticeable loss is in our sense of well-being and joy. Laughter and spontaneity surface only occasionally.

Do any of these symptoms strike home? Has bitterness taken its toll on your emotions, your relationships, your home? If so, the disease not only can be checked but cured by a proved biblical prescription. Which we will begin to look at tomorrow.

“And their talk will spread like gangrene...” 2 Timothy 2:17