Hebrews 12:15 “Watch out that no root of bitterness springs up to trouble you, defiling many”
Have you ever felt the sting of bitterness? That feeling of anger, resentment and disappointment from being treated unfairly can fester inside of us, like a root slowly spreading its way through a garden. The Bible warns us to watch out for these roots of bitterness, because if left unchecked, they can defile many.
It might start as just a small attitude, a little thing that nags at us, but the scriptures warn us that “the little foxes spoil the vine”. It doesn’t take long for bitterness to grow into big trouble. The only way to overcome bitterness is by humbling ourselves and taking on the character and nature of Jesus with the help of the Holy Spirit.
Bitterness spreads and defiles many through what the Bible calls “corrupt talk”. The Bible tells us to “let no corrupting talk come out of our mouths, but only such as is good for building up and giving grace to those who hear.” (Eph 4:29)
Beware of those who spread bitterness, offense, gossip, and slander – especially against your spiritual leaders! They are helping demons do their job of division and strife when they do this! Do not allow yourself to be defiled by them. Their words can pile up until they have a case against even the most respected leaders.
Don’t let bitterness defile you. Don’t partake in someone else’s sin by sharing and agreeing with their offenses. If you see someone caught up in bitterness, saying things they shouldn’t about their church or leaders, speak to them in love and warn them to repent. If they listen, great! If they don’t, the Bible warns us to stay away from these types of people even if they call themselves Christian (Titus 3:10).
Let’s strive to keep our hearts and our words pure, so that we can build each other up and glorify God! Don’t be bitter, be better!
Blessings!
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