Bitterness
It can creep into our minds undetected. It may start with one small thought but left unchecked, bitterness can maneuver its way into our hearts and make itself at home. Many things can trigger bitterness. Like coming face to face with someone who wronged us in the past. Recalling the hurtfulness for which they never apologized or even acknowledged. We sometimes bury bitter feelings so deep that we think we’ve rid ourselves of them. But then, that person or memory pops up, and the bitterness we once felt comes back with a vengeance. Over time, the small seeds of bitterness can develop roots and begin to grow.
In my personal experience, bitterness has often sprouted because of a perceived wrong. When I felt like I’d been treated unjustly, that lingering resentment fed the root of bitterness and helped it grow.
Wouldn’t I rather harbor love than bitterness? The answer is yes, yet I know getting rid of bitterness takes an intentional commitment to seek God’s ways and the leading of the Holy Spirit in my everyday life. I cannot get rid of bitterness if I’ve given it a place to thrive. To break free from bitterness, I must pull it out from the roots and replace it with the good things of God.
Dr. Capps is the OIC (Maj) of Chaplain Services and Chief Psychological Officer of the VDF Chaplain Corps Psychological Resources Program. He also owns and operates Capps Christian Counseling LLC. since 2009. He has faithfully served with the USN, and the Virginia Defense Force. He is responsible for the creation of the VDF Mental Health Initiative, and the standing up of the Psychological Health Resources Program.
People carry around deep and painful wounds, wounds of betrayal, wounds of disappointment.
But there is a cure, forgiveness. Forgiveness is life’s antibiotic that when taken will bring health to body, soul, and spirit. It’s life’s antibiotic that will bring back life.
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:31-32)
Thank you for your word. I pray your week is filled with God’s amazing grace. Take care and God bless
Correct. When we judge others we do not have time to love them. Yet love is a spiritual command.
Correct. When we judge others we do not have time to love them. Yet love is a spiritual command.