The Bitter Root

Hebrews 12:15 NIV - "See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many." Keep Reading...

How do you deal with those who annoy you? How about those who bring serious offence into your life? Hebrews 12:14 says, "Make every effort to live at peace with all men…." But, it's the other person's fault, you say. Why should I be the one to "make every effort to live at peace with all men?"

Apart from this being God's command to us, there are two other reasons why you should make every effort to live at peace with everyone. First, look at the model of Jesus. Considering the rebellious state of humans, Jesus made "every effort" by making himself nothing for us (becoming human) and becoming obedient to death on a cross (Philippians 2:5-11). Even while he hung on the cross, Jesus forgave his persecutors. You can certainly "make every effort" in light of Jesus' incredible effort on your behalf.

Secondly, Hebrews 12:15 tells us that God gives us grace to live at peace with all men. But it is possible for you to miss the grace. When you choose to hold onto anger and records of wrongs, you miss the grace. When you withhold forgiveness, you miss the grace.

What happens when "every effort" is not made? You miss God's grace, and a bitter root springs up. When grace is absent, bitterness will always fill the void. This bitterness does not only affect you, but all those around you. It is like a communicable disease spread by spirit and mouth. Those who are susceptible will become defiled themselves.

Avoid the defiling plague of bitterness. Cut it out at the root if it has begun to lodge within you. Repent of disobedience and call out for the grace of God. Now "make every effort to live at peace with all men."

Allow the Holy Spirit to scan your life today. Let him spotlight any areas of passivity or bitterness in your relationships.