Root of Bitterness

Illustrating a Truth of Freedom through Forgiving

All scripture citations are from the English Standard Version (ESV) unless otherwise noted.

There is a process to forgiving and it can be as hard as cutting down a tree, hauling off all the branches, then digging up the stump. It doesn't always happen just by saying the words.  Setting your will, finally choosing to agree with God, and forgiving the hurt or offense is like cutting down the tree. This really clears the air! But as the days go by you may discover your "feeling system" is still lying on the ground and needs to have the decision of your will reinforced with repeated declarations, similar to clearing away the trunk and branches.

Once everything is released to God, including any hurt that has "stumped us" over why He allowed it to happen, all of the pain in our memories is removed at the root. Forgiving “from the heart” can be hard work, but it is extremely rewarding!

Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no "root of bitterness" springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled. Hebrews 12:14-15

And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses." Mark 11:25

Prayer

Lord, make me willing to be made willing to obey You fully from the heart. Help me want what You want (forgiveness) and hate what You hate (un-forgiveness). I would rather be free on the inside, than bitter.  I will set free anyone I must in order to get free. What was done to me is nothing compared to what bitterness is doing to me now.  I am not bound by the past, only by my bitterness about it. Whatever the reasons are for being bitter, they are not as good as freedom feels.  I will turn the key of forgiveness and walk away. I therefore choose to forgive ______ and release him/her from all my bitter judgments. I am giving _____ to You along with all the pain and injustice for You to redeem. I am trusting You with it all.

Next Illustrated Truth

The Pit of Depression
Illustrating the differences between emotional oppression and depression and showing the way out.