Embers of Bitterness

Has someone ever done you wrong, and you perpetually think of those unwarranted and unjust actions? As minutes, hours and days go by, you continue to think about your pain at various points throughout your day, creating a burning ember of bitterness within you, captivating your time and energy.

A harvest that has God’s approval comes from the peace planted by peacemakers.
– James 3:18 GW

When someone has done you wrong, there is an absolute pain and emotional grief you must process. It’s interesting how the element of time and distancing yourself from that person and action helps to relieve some of your pain. Still, the bitterness remains because of the scars and memories imprinted on your heart.

So, here’s the question. Do you continue to allow embers to burn in your mind and heart, or will you release those burning, bitter feelings to the Lord? You have a choice. While it is easier said than done, you know the right choice. Now is the time to let go of the embers burning within you and let God fill you with grace.

God will replace your bitterness with grace when you ask Him to fill your heart with His glowing grace.

When you recognize bitterness could fortify in your heart, you can choose many biblical things to do to deflect the harm and not allow it to burn within you.

Here are three:

1. Trust in the Lord and know He will take care of you. This action is not accepting the wrongful act done to you but trusting in the Lord’s sovereignty (Romans 8:28).
2. Ask God for understanding and sensitivity to glean wisdom He reveals to you (Proverbs 2:6), so you can reap any benefit from the action done to you.
3. Ask Him to fill you with abundant grace so you may forgive the one who caused you pain. This takes guts and your willingness to extinguish the embers burning within you.

When you accept Jesus as Savior, you become God’s child. He wants the best for you, and He knows that life brings momentary pain at times. You are not entitled to live life without pain, but you are encouraged to trust in the Lord and allow Him to replace your hurt with His love and grace.

Today’s One Thing
Implement the action steps listed above and release yourself from the embers of bitterness.

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