The Problem of Bitterness in Your Life, Part 3

Our passage from the Word of God today is Proverbs 15:1. It reads, "A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger."

Our quote for today is from Evette Dionne. She said, “Bitterness is a ravaging disease. It impacts our ability to thrive in a world where most don’t care to acknowledge how we feel. Bitterness can be compared to a virus, entering our bodies and feeding off of all that is positive in our lives; where there existed happiness and contentment, bitterness leaves anger, sadness, and emotional scarring.”

Our problem today is "The Problem of Bitterness in Your Life" (part 3) from the book, "The Guide to Biblical Counseling" by Dr. Tim Clinton and Dr. Ron Hawkins. 

Today, we will offer some Biblical Insights regarding dealing with Bitterness...

1 Samuel 18:8-9 says, “And Saul was very wroth, and the saying displeased him; and he said, They have ascribed unto David ten thousands, and to me they have ascribed but thousands: and what can he have more but the kingdom? And Saul eyed David from that day and forward.”

King Saul wasted his last years in hatred and anger. Fears, jealousies, murderous thoughts, and violent rage consumed him without relief. His soul was hardened and unresponsive to any message from God. He collected a legacy of evil and bitterness that finally turned into self-destruction.

People who are bitter, angry, divisive, and dark in thought and deed need to be treated with mercy and respect, but they also must be lovingly called to repentance. The church can speak truth to them while taking care not to join them on their bitter journey.

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