Hebrews 12:15 …Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many.
Roots can be tricky things. Because they burrow deep underground, it’s hard to tell how extensive a root system is. If roots are strong enough, they can eventually show themselves above ground, like when a sidewalk is buckled as roots surface. And have you ever tried to cut a sapling off at the dirt, thinking that will take care of the problem? If the roots are left in place, a new sapling will spring up in no time.
Eph 4:31a Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice….
How much more tenacious are the roots of bitterness. Because they run underground, we may think we’ve ferreted them out, only to be unpleasantly surprised when the surface of life begins to buckle as bitter roots appear above ground. Or perhaps we think we’ve dealt with the issue, only to be caught off guard at how much stronger the roots have grown since last we examined them.
Eph 4:31b …Be kind to one another, tender hearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.
Lord, Thank You for this day and for the reminder of the corrupting power of the poisonous roots of bitterness. Help us to examine carefully and honestly the roots that anchor our lives to You. Help us to deal with any feelings of hurt, anger, bitterness, and resentment before those roots grow out of control, choking out the good, healthy influences in our lives. Help us to face our bitter roots head on and to combat them with Your love, mercy, and grace. Draw us closer to You. Amen.
Hebrews 12:25 Be careful that you do not refuse to listen to the One who is speaking.
Have a blessed day.