Week 6
Bitterness
Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.
Ephesians 4:31
Bitterness springs from deep hurt. Such was the case for a Karen man who said, “If the Burmans go to heaven, I don’t want to go to heaven.” Easier for us to tell him not to feel bitter. But he experienced unimaginable losses and agonizing sufferings in the hands of the brutal Burmans. Deep hurt is planted deep down in his heart growing intense hatred. If you had to go through what he did, you probably would feel the same too. But if bitterness makes us want to stay away from where God is and what God wants for our life, we must let go of it. If bitterness poisons our heart and imprisons our soul, we must choose freedom over bondage. Bitterness is choosing to stay in hell instead of heaven. Think of a person who has hurt you deeply. Then, think of Jesus on the cross. Jesus frees you from the wage of your sin that killed Him. Will you let this person who has hurt you go free. Then, you will have two free people: the person who hurt you and YOU.
Dear God, please help me to uproot bitterness growing in my heart. I can no longer carry the burden of hatred and resentment for they are crushing my soul. Please cure my bitter heart and make it sweet and sing Your amazing grace and mercy. I pray in Jesus’ Name, amen.