Overcoming The Problem Of Bitterness Series

• Sibling rivalries are natural, yet very carnal and motivated by pride. It is very easy for pride and jealousy to take over in a marriage.

• We expect love and understanding from family. We have high expectations. When we are done wrong, it hurts very deeply, and bitterness can result.

• Probably 90% of our bitterness problems fall into one of these three categories: someone we were once close to, someone in authority, or someone in our family.

What does bitterness lead to?

1. Division – Numbers 12:4-5

• When we get bitter, we create a division between us and the person we’re bitter at. It can’t help but happen. We build walls that separate and divide.

• We can try to be a hypocrite and cover it, but the bitter vibes are there. Ever been bitter at another person and tried to hide it? Isn’t that a great feeling?

2. God’s displeasure – Numbers 12:6-11

• God cannot and will not condone bitterness. It grieves the Holy Spirit. God is never going to say, “You know, you’re right. Stay bitter. You’ve got a right.” Ephesians 4:30-32

• Was Moses right or wrong? That wasn’t the issue with God. The issue was envy, jealousy, and bitterness.

3. Physical sickness – Numbers 12:10

• Bitterness is like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die.

• I realize that, in our text, this was a direct judgment from God, but there is still a good practical application for us. Bitterness is a form of stress, and it can destroy you physically and put you in an early grave.

4. Loss of joy and isolation – Numbers 12:15a

• Who do you hurt the most when you are bitter? Yourself! You are allowing that other person to control you.

5. Hindrance to your Christian walk – Numbers 12:15b

• Miriam brought herself and all the people to a standstill.

• Your Bible reading becomes mechanical, prayer is lifeless, and your service for the Lord is fleshly. Before you can move on and begin to grow again, the bitterness must be dealt with.