Hebrews 12:15New International Version (NIV)

¹⁵ See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.

Bitterness is a big faith killer. I have seen it change a person from the inside out. Once having faith but allowing the seed of bitterness into their heart, and they allow it to grow. Here it will eventually allow you to become a person you do not want to be.

The seed of bitterness will also destroy marriage. The seed is usually dropped because of hurt. Your spouse will hurt you in such a way that the seed is dropped, and it eventually may take root.

I like to use the analogy of a dandelion. The rood of a dandelion can actually go 15 feet into the ground. Many people think if they cut it off from the surface that the plant will eventually die. It will not. The only way to kill the dandelion plant is to use a plant killer chemical.

Bitterness is the same way. Trying to only deal with the problem at the surface will only create a short term response. To kill the root of bitterness will take willingness of the person. If you look at Luke 6:22 it says, ‘But to you who are willing to listen.’ Then Jesus talks about forgiving.

Are you willing to kill the root of forgiveness? It will require a person to be obedient to what God’s Word says about forgiving. Will you forgive a debt, a sin, and a trespass that your spouse has committed?

Only by being obedient to the Word of God and allowing the Holy Spirit to keep our hearts pliable can we overcome bitterness. As Jesus says, ‘Are you willing?’

Strength and Courage

Michael