Beware of Bitterness

“So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity.” Colossians 3:12-14

A city police officer was severely wounded in the line of duty. After months of rehabilitation, he was still in a wheelchair where he very likely will spend the rest of his life. A local television station interviewed the officer during a fund raising drive to help cover his high medical expenses. The reporter asked, “Are you bitter at what has happened to you?” His response was firm: “I do not have any time to waste on feeling bitter.”

A bitter spirit does not profit its host; it destroys him. A man or woman who refuses to forgive another has created the ideal climate for the growth of bitterness.  The bitter person can harbor a grudge against his offender for years, a decade, a lifetime - and have nothing to gain but anger and frustration. Attempts at retaliation only tighten the grip of bitterness.

Forgiveness is the only antidote for a bitter heart. Healing and restoration begin when we release the one who hurts us from our judgement. Are you bitter toward someone? Have you been unable to forgive? Today, by God’s enabling, forgive the offender and remove the emotional parasite of bitterness from your heart.

“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.” Philemon 1:25