“Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”
Ephesians 4:31-32 NLT Dealing with others can often turn negative. Words spoken, or actions taken, can leave a trail of negative, evil feelings. This can lead to bitterness, fits of rage, belligerent word wars, and even attempts to verbally destroy the person in the eyes of others. It is so easy to let a root of bitterness make its home in the soil of our hearts. When this happens, we become infected with a spiritual, emotional sickness that requires divine healing. We must do two things: 1. Remember how God has loved and forgiven us. 2. Act toward others in the same way that Jesus has to us. Unforgiveness is poison to the spirit, soul, and body. Jesus spoke about forgiveness in what we call "The Lord's Prayer" in Matthew 6:9-13. He was so clear on the issue that he reiterated its significance in verses 14 and 15 - ““If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.” Matthew 6:14-15 NLT When Jesus makes special emphasis on something, it is wise that we heed His instruction. To ignore His instruction is to invite disaster. Today, if there is someone, or something, that has made you bitter, angry, and/or unforgiving, please turn to Jesus for His help in overcoming it. There is victory and freedom through Him.
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March 2020
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