Read: Ephesians 4:17-32
Not long ago Ed Stetzer tweeted out a short quote that we all need to take note of. He said, “Bitterness eventually destroys you.” Bitterness, anger, and rage can become dangerous attitudes and actions in our lives if we allow them to take root and overtake any of our relationships, interactions, and conversations. If we allow them to take root they will create problems far and wide.
Often times roots are referred to as positive examples of nourishment, growth, and the sustaining of life. This is true if the roots are bringing forth Godly and positive growth in our lives. However, some things such as anger and bitterness can also take root and affect us in negative ways. As Stetzer reminds us, these things can destroy us if we allow them to take root.
In Ephesians 4 the apostle Paul gives us some good instructions for Christian living. He speaks of honesty, reconciliation, wholesome talk, kindness, and compassion. He also points out things that can deter us from living a Christian life that brings forth these positive characteristics. He says, “Stop being bitter and angry and mad at others. Don’t yell at one another or curse each other or ever be rude.” (Eph. 4:31 CEV)
Whether in person or on social media we need to take heed of what Paul encourages. We must not promote bitterness and rage, instead we need to be the voice of calm, peace, and compassion. We must not allow the root of bitterness to seep into the soil of our lives and bring destruction. It will if we allow it to and if we continuously feed it without restraint.
Make it Personal: Think about some things in your life that cause anger and bitterness. Have you let it overtake you, consume you, and destroy the goodness that God wants to cultivate in your life and relationships? As Paul encourages, get rid of it, and ask Jesus to help you overcome it.
Have a great week everyone, Pastor Glen Rhodes
