See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no “root of bitterness” springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled. (Heb 12:15)

Bitterness begins as a root.

It is hidden.

But it soon grows and produces bitter fruit.

Bitterness begins as a seed.

When things don’t go the way we want it.  When bad things happen to us.  When others hurt us.

That feeling of bitterness arises inside of us is caused by our reaction.

We feel disappointed, frustrated, angry, cheated, short changed, humiliated, betrayed, threatened.

We start blaming others and God.

We fail to see how it can work out for our good.

We can’t bring ourselves to forgive that person who did something bad to us.

We don’t see God at work.

But if we trust the Lord and believe:

• that nothing escapes His attention,
• that all things will work out for our good,
• that God allows it to happen with a purpose,
• that we will understand it some day,
• that His grace will carry us through.

If we see God at work behind that situation and exercise faith in Him, we will be at peace.

We will not despair or be discouraged.

We will have hope, faith, and love.

We will be rewarded for our faith in Him one day.

So believe that God is gracious. 

Receive His grace instead of becoming bitter.

Be planted in the grace of God and bear the fruit of God’s grace.

(MT)