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A Root Of Bitterness

Bitterness. Buried deep. Planted by injustice, betrayal, hurt, deceit. Left in tact, it will sprout all kinds of trouble that will grow to defile us. From bitterness comes discontent, jealousy, hate and unforgiveness. It chokes out the fruit of the Spirit and steals our joy, our peace and our love.

Bitterness has no place in a Christian's heart and we must constantly seek to dig it out ... daily. Life happens and circumstances weigh on us, but we can't let a bitter root take hold of our lives. Maybe someone that you love has betrayed you. Maybe you have been dealt an injustice that has caused you loss and suffering. There may be circumstances of life that you just don’t understand and that seem unfair. 

Whatever the case, God wants us to find our strength and dependence in Him. He wants to perfect us into His holiness so that we can live above our circumstances. The enemy of our souls wants us focused on our situation, believing his lie that we have been treated "unfairly." This mindset not only steals our ability to enjoy our abundant life in Christ, but it makes us ineffective in our work for the Kingdom and could ultimately cost us our soul.

Digging out that root of bitterness starts with forgiveness. Forgiving others and allowing God to forgive us through the redemption of Christ's sacrifice. 

Challenge:

Today, search your heart to make sure that no root of bitterness exists to grow up causing you trouble.