See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by it many are defiled. (Hebrews 12:15, NASB)

Satan the enemy of our souls has a specific strategy; which is to destroy relationships. Whether in business, marriage, or friendships, he uses the same strategy. He starts a conflict that leads to rush judgment resulting in hurt feelings. What happens next is the defining point of whether he gains a foothold, or the grace of God covers the wrong.

When a person allows a root of bitterness to be planted in his/her heart and let it grow, it not only affects that person, but it also affect others who are involved. It is like a cancer. Breaking Satan's foothold requires at least one person to press into God's grace. It cannot happen when either party "feels" like it, for none of us will ever feel like forgiving. None of us feel like talking when we have been hurt. Our natural response is to withdraw or lash out at the offending party. It is only obedience that allows God's grace to cover the wrongs incurred. This grace prevents the parties from becoming victims who will seek compensation for their pain.

The next time you are hurt by someone, realize the gravity of the crossroads where you find yourswelf. Choose "grace" instead of "bitterness." Then, you will be free to move past the hurt, and the root of bitterness will not be given the opportunity to grow in your heart.

Prayer: Lord, help me pluck out the root of bitterness from my heart. Change my heart from being stony into a soft heart, that is willing to forgive those who has done me wrong. The hurt inflicted on me cannot compare to the hurt inflicted to You by your enemies, yet, you forgive them. Help me to forgive the same way You have forgiven those who have hurt You. In Jesus' name I pray...Amen!

Pastor Nick
Servant Of Christ