The Poison of Bitterness: A Thorn in the Flesh
As I engage with people, I’ve noticed that it doesn’t take long to identify those who are harboring bitterness. It’s a sad reality, as clinging to bitterness can have devastating consequences for the individual who can’t seem to let go.
A Deep and Untreated Wound
Bitterness is like an embedded thorn, causing a deep and festering wound. If left unchecked, it will sprout a root system that spreads its toxic influence into every area of life, ultimately derailing us and causing us to regress.
Rationalizing the Unacceptable
When bitterness takes hold, we often justify, rationalize, and convince ourselves that we have every right to feel this way. We may even persuade ourselves that we’ve made peace with living with bitterness, but this is a perilous place to be.
God’s Warning Against Bitterness
The Bible warns us against allowing bitterness to take root in our lives. Ephesians 4:31-32 instructs us to “put away” bitterness, anger, and malice, and instead be kind, tenderhearted, and forgiving towards one another.
Breaking Free from Bitterness
The good news is that we don’t have to remain trapped by bitterness. We can remove the thorn and allow healing to take place. As Psalm 147:3 promises, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
From Brokenness to Wholeness
Where bitterness resides, brokenness follows. However, when we release bitterness, healing can begin. The air is freshened, and we can breathe anew.
Choosing to Let Go
It’s time to confront the poison of bitterness in our lives. Will we choose to hold onto it, or will we opt for freedom and wholeness? The decision is ours.
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