“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
Only through Jesus can we rid ourselves of bitterness. His entire life showed us how to forgive, even to His last few moments on the cross. As He looked out at bitter humanity—at those who mocked Him, spat on Him, and watched Him be beaten beyond recognition—He spoke solemn words: “Father, forgive them” (Luke 23:34).
Bitterness is the acid that consumes the container. We don’t hold onto it so much as it holds onto us. A bitter person is negative, never satisfied, and forever bringing up old wounds. The only cure is forgiveness.
Marriages, families, and friendships can all be ruined by just one bitter person who feels justified in his/her feelings. But these relationships also can be saved by the reality of the One Person who gave perfect forgiveness at Calvary. While Jesus spoke directly to those gathered around the cross, His prayer that the Father would forgive them is spoken for you and me, too. Let Jesus’ words dissolve the bitterness you may harbor. He has freely forgiven you, so go ahead and forgive others.



Scripture Focus

James 1:19-21

Insight

Come to the fountain of Jesus’ precious blood. Be cleansed and forgiven today, forgiving others along the way.

Bible In A Year

  • 2 Chronicles 15-16
  • Psalm 15
  • Matthew 22

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