Bible Explorer for the Young (2 Samuel)Sample

The Damages Caused by A Bitter Heart

Job 21:25

Another dies in bitterness of soul, never having enjoyed anything good.

David and his son Absalom had some disagreement and conflict in the past. After some time, David called Absalom and reconciled with him. He forgave his son. However, Absalom did not forgive his father. Secretly, he still held some bitterness in his heart towards David. 

Driven by this bitterness, Absalom made a plan to overthrow his father from the throne. He influenced many Israelites to go together with him in this act of betrayal. As a result, David and his loyal men had to run away to escape from Absalom and his men. 

Bitterness is anger and disappointment at being treated unfairly by someone. Bitterness has the power to turn the best of you into the worst of you. Bitterness builds the desire to make someone else suffer. The damage caused by bitterness is very harmful. God wants us to forgive others as God Himself has forgiven us. If you have bitterness inside your heart, let God pull it out and heal your heart with His love. The Holy Spirit can help you forgive those who have treated you badly. 

Prayer

Dear God, I don't want to be controlled by bitterness. Let Your love take control of my heart. Amen.