Uprooting Bitterness!

As a gardener I've often joked that there are some weeds whose roots go as deep as hell. Spiritually, there is a root which grows from the depths of hell: it's called bitterness.
Bitterness is a condition of the heart which generally comes from a deep hurt or disappointment. It’s often brought on by a bad experience with someone or something and it becomes a root which is fertilized by dissatisfaction and regret.
For bitterness to spring up, there has to be an intentional decision to set aside the grace of God that we are to extend to others - this provides the fertile soil needed for the root of bitterness to grow (Heb. 12:15).
Bitterness is a mindset or stronghold within us which puts up barriers to relationship with God and other people. It turns a hurt into a platform for vengeance and it seethes underneath the surface of poise, waiting to pounce like a roaring lion. Bitterness is a motive which lurks in wait to take opportunity to justify oneself at any cost. Medical science suggests that bitterness leads to depression, cardiovascular problems and a weakened immune system. It’s a consuming sickness of the soul which spills over into the physical body, but there is a certain cure in our loving Savior!
Repentance, forgiveness and grace release us from the bondage of bitterness: forgive self, forgive others and extend grace to destroy the root of bitterness! Completely repent of and release thoughts of vengeance, self-justification, unforgiveness and regret! Replace those thoughts with the goodness of God and His Word - this retrains the heart and mind in God’s grace and love, and chokes out bitterness. Grace extended not only destroys the enemy’s opportunity to plant bitterness in us, but it melts the heart of the person who is bitter against us and others.
Tend your garden: pull up the root of bitterness today and move forward in your life in Christ!