Sermon Central
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Dealing With Bitterness Series
Contributed by Rev. Samuel Arimoro on Apr 10, 2025 (message contributor)
Summary: Bitterness is a weight that God never intended us to carry. It corrupts the heart, poisons relationships, and hinders destiny. But through Christ, we have the power to overcome it.
DEALING WITH BITTERNESS
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text:
Hebrews 12:15 (KJV):
"Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;"
Supporting Texts: Ephesians 4:31, Colossians 3:13, Proverbs 14:10, James 3:14-16, Matthew 18:21-35
INTRODUCTION:
Bitterness is a dangerous spiritual toxin that silently eats away at the soul. It often begins as hurt or offence, but when left unresolved, it takes root and grows into deep-seated resentment. Many believers struggle in their walk with God not because of outward sin but because of inner wounds they have refused to let go. Bitterness defiles the heart, hinders prayer, and opens the door to the enemy.
Bitterness is not just an emotional issue—it is a spiritual stronghold. It thrives on unforgiveness, self-pity, and pride. The devil uses it to create division, destroy relationships, and sabotage destinies. That’s why Scripture warns us to watch out for the "root of bitterness" which can spring up and trouble not only us but those around us.
As believers, we are called to walk in love, forgiveness, and healing. God wants to set His people free from the bondage of bitterness. Through His grace, we can overcome hurt, release those who wronged us, and live with peace in our hearts. This message is a call to let go, be healed, and walk in freedom.
1. UNDERSTANDING BITTERNESS
Before we can deal with bitterness, we must understand what it truly is and how it operates.
a) Definition of Bitterness:
Bitterness is a deep-rooted feeling of anger, resentment, or disappointment over being wronged or hurt (Proverbs 14:10).
b) It Begins with Offence.
Every root of bitterness begins with an offence that is not properly dealt with (Luke 17:1).
c) Bitterness Grows in Silence
It often hides in the heart, festering over time until it corrupts thoughts and behaviours (James 3:14-16).
d) It Defiles the Soul
Hebrews 12:15 warns that bitterness defiles both the individual and others they influence.
Biblical Example: Absalom’s bitterness against his brother Amnon and his father David led to murder and rebellion (2 Samuel 13–15).
2. THE DANGERS OF BITTERNESS
Bitterness is more harmful to the person who harbours it than to the one it is directed at.
a) It Robs You of Joy and Peace
A bitter person cannot fully experience God’s peace or joy (Isaiah 57:20-21).
b) It Affects Your Relationship with God
Bitterness blocks spiritual growth and hinders prayer (Matthew 6:15).
c) It Can Affect Your Health
Studies even show that bitterness can lead to stress, high blood pressure, and depression (Proverbs 17:22).
d) It Breaks Relationships
Bitterness poisons conversations, attitudes, and breaks down unity in homes, churches, and communities (Ephesians 4:31).
Biblical Example: Naomi’s experience in Moab left her bitter, and she even asked to be called “Mara” (Ruth 1:20), though God later restored her.
3. CAUSES OF BITTERNESS
Bitterness has different entry points in our lives, and recognising them helps us uproot it.
a) Unforgiveness
Holding on to offences rather than releasing them leads to bitterness (Colossians 3:13).
b) Rejection and Neglect
Feeling overlooked or unwanted can birth long-term resentment (Genesis 37:4-11).
c) Betrayal and Broken Trust
When those close to us betray us, the pain can turn to bitterness if not surrendered to God (Psalm 55:12-14).
d) Injustice or Unfair Treatment
Experiencing unfairness without healing often results in bitterness (Habakkuk 1:2-4).
Biblical Example: Job’s lament and struggle with bitterness arose from intense suffering and misunderstanding (Job 7:11).
4. DEALING WITH BITTERNESS GOD’S WAY
God has provided solutions through His Word and Spirit for us to overcome bitterness.
a) Acknowledge and Confess It
Healing begins when we admit we are bitter and confess it to God (1 John 1:9).
b) Forgive from the Heart
True freedom from bitterness comes when we sincerely forgive those who hurt us (Matthew 18:21-22).
c) Release the Past and Move On
Dwelling on old wounds keeps us in bondage. We must choose to let go (Philippians 3:13-14).
d) Ask God for Healing and Love
Only God can heal emotional wounds and pour His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5).
Biblical Example: Stephen, while being stoned, forgave his killers, showing a heart free of bitterness (Acts 7:60).
5. LIVING A BITTERNESS-FREE LIFE
God wants us to walk in love, grace, and emotional freedom every day.
a) Walk in the Spirit Daily
Yielding to the Holy Spirit keeps our hearts tender and responsive (Galatians 5:16).
b) Guard Your Heart Diligently
Don’t allow offences to settle; deal with them immediately (Proverbs 4:23).
c) Speak Words of Grace and Healing
Bitterness spreads through negative speech. Choose uplifting words (Ephesians 4:29).
d) Stay in Fellowship and Accountability
Fellowship with other believers helps us stay balanced and healthy (Hebrews 10:25).
Biblical Example: Jesus, on the cross, forgave those who crucified Him, leaving us an example to follow (Luke 23:34).
