Root Of Bitterness

When the root is bitterness, imagine what the fruit might be." Woodrow Kroll

We are told "Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things" (Philippians 4:8). 

The admonition to see to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no root of bitterness grows up to cause trouble has not been heeded by many and as a result many have become defiled. (Hebrew12:15). It is Gods will that we guard our heart above all else, for it deermines the course of our life. (Proverbs 14:23). To do so we have to be true, be ourselves, be honest, treat others justly, keep ourselves pure and free from the evil influences of our age. 

Paul reminds us that all athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, that being temporal, however God's will is that we also strive to do and be the person He created us to be, that we might receive the eternal prize.

Examination is therefore call forth, self-examination; to ensure no bitter root springs up and ruin not only our hearts but our life. To turn from right doing is to disobey He who knows all things and has made us and whose intentions is to make us the very best.

So let us be careful our own hearts are not evil and we turn from the true and living God. Many will follow evil teachings and shameful immorality, but God expect us to heed His word and strive always to be obedient to Him as He knows our frame, He is our Creator. The only one who died that we might be forgiven. 

"Untill we taste the bitterness of our own misery we will never relish the sweetness of God's mercy. Until we see how foul our sins have made us we will never pay our tribute to Christ for washing us...if you would know the heart of your sin then you must know the sins of your heart!" William Seker.