Root of Bitterness: Be Gone

“15 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 12:15

Beloved,

We need to guard our hearts for it is the wellspring of life (Proverbs 4:23).  We must examine our hearts to make sure no roots of sin are growing there.  As I mentioned on Sunday, bitterness is a deadly sin for a church.  It is so dangerous because it develops quickly and has the power to control relationships for many years.  It may appear easier to allow bitterness to overtake the heart rather than offering forgiveness to those who have hurt you, but the root of bitterness causes trouble and many become defiled.


So what kind of trouble does bitterness cause? Bitterness affects the relational unity within the church.  We are commanded to “make every effort to keep the unity in the Spirit in the bond of peace.”  When bitterness takes root in the heart we are not make every effort to keep unity in the Spirit in the bond of peace.  Bitterness inhibits obedience.  It is a sin against God and against God’s people.  Our unity is a picture to the world that gospel is true for in the way we love each other all men will know we are disciples of the Lord Jesus (John13:34-35).


Seeing that no root of bitterness develops in your own heart is a protection for you own soul and for the souls of others. We must have the same attitude of that of Christ Jesus for when he was reviled, he did not revile in return (Phil 2:4; 1 Peter 2:23). Jesus received the greatest evil this world has ever known when he became sin who knew no sin so we could become the righteousness of God (2 Cor 5:21).  Jesus did not harbor bitterness against those who hurt him, but said, “Father, forgive them.”  I pray you do the same.
There are many relationships that need healing, I pray that you will examine your heart to see that no “root of bitterness” springs up and causes trouble for your soul and the souls of others.
In Christ,
Pastor Dave