Digging Up Bitter Roots
Hi friends – as I hear the birds chirping outside, Spring is certainly in the air. Trees are beginning to bud, and the crocuses are rising up out of the ground. Underneath the soil are roots of beautiful plants and flowers – but also of weeds. Those bothersome plants must be dealt with before they grow and overtake the yard. It’s the same with the garden of our soul; bitter roots need to be grappled with if we want to experience happiness, joy and freedom.
Many people are not only embittered, but they seem to be contented in being that way. They hold things against others, as if it’s their purpose for living. The world tells us we have a right to be angry and disappointed, and walk around with hostility in heart. Can you it recognize when someone is bitter? Whether they are young or old, you see it in their eyes and the lines of their face. You hear it in the tone of their voice, even when they protest they are not bitter. The reality is, it is central and pervades everything.
Bitterness is what we feel when others sin against us. It points to the action of another person, which is based on something that directly relates to us. It all depends how close it is; most often we are disgruntled towards family, friends, coworkers, and roommates. Our bitter feelings are based upon somebody else’s wrongdoing towards someone, or something we care about. It can be a major or minor offense.
Bitterness accumulates.
Bitterness remembers details.
Bitterness accuses.
Bitterness imprisons.
Bitterness is toxic.
The Bible does not grant anyone the right to be bitter. It describes bitterness as a root, something that is underground and can’t be seen. But there can be visible evidence of it, as when sidewalks are lifted. Roots drink in nourishment, and don’t stay roots – eventually they come up and destroy. If there is a bitter root, it will bear bitter fruit in our lives. In Hebrews 12:15, we are told to get rid of any bitterness, so we are not poisoned. Truth be told, it makes US – not them – sick! When we allow it to fester and grow, we not only hurt others but sadly destroy ourselves in the process.
So, what do we do? A friend may challenge us to either hold onto bitter feelings or even let them out. But in doing so, we spread the sickness around. Personally, I like to choose God’s way which is always the best way. His solution is to examine the soil of our hearts. We can ask Him to show us where we have any bitter roots. Then invite the Holy Spirit’s help to dig them up and properly dispose them by surrendering them. This takes the grace of Jesus but it is possible, because He is the source of mercy and help in our time of need. So why not grab your garden spade this week? As you weed out your soul, you”ll experience a renewed sense of joy, and grow in new and beautiful ways.
Coaching Connection:
- What bitter roots can you identify in your life?
- What will you do with them?
To Your Growth,
Image by vandervelden from Getty Images