the legacy of bitterness.
You say you've gotten over your hurt and resentment and now you're moving on. Good, but what are you leaving behind? The views you expressed were based on what you understood and how you felt at the time. But now you know more. You have matured Spiritually and your words are governed by grace. But did what you say shape the opinion and infect the attitude of others? Have you left a legacy of bitterness? It's wonderful when you can move from resenting others to forgiving them - but what about the unhealed wounds you've left behind?
James writes, "My dear brothers and sisters… be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires" (James 1:19-20). The writer to the Hebrews says: "See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many." Thoughtless words leave lasting damage. That should concern us greatly! And it should call for making amends by setting the record straight with those we've left festering over a situation we now feel differently about. This is hard to do but we need to do it. It takes humility to go back and straighten things out, but until we do we won't be right with God.
Jesus said, "If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you… go and be reconciled… then come and offer your gift" (Matthew 5:23-24).
posted by Jeddy! | 10:38 AM
