Confronting Family Bitterness

Introduction:

Nothing can damage relations with family more than bitterness/resentment. At one time or another, we have all been hurt in family relationships. We can get upset over something a family member said to us. Bitterness often starts off small & grows bigger and bigger. Before long, it can consume everything in our life.  Destroy our happiness. The Bible speaks on this: Hebrews 12:14-15; Eph. 4:30-32.

I. Identifying Bitterness.

A.     Heb. 12:15 – bitterness is described as a root.

B.     But yet, many seek to bury the hurt/pain deep in their heart.

1.     Mt. 15:18-20 – bitterness can contaminate everything that comes out of us.

C.     How do I know if it has invaded my life?  Some questions:

1.     Is there a family member I can’t stand to be around? Avoid at all costs?

2.     Is there someone you cannot see any good in?

3.     Is there a temptation to think and speak evil of them?

4.     Prov. 14:10 – we can know for sure if bitterness is a part of our life.

D.     What is coming out of me?

1.     John 7:38 – a contaminated spring cannot produce fresh water.

2.     Js. 3:9-12 – we must be willing to change.

3.     Forget the past.

II. The effects of bitterness.

A.     Bitterness has been compared to a constantly running machine. Will take its toll on you physically.

1.     Linked to heart problems and high blood pressure.

2.     Emotional and psychological affects.

B.     Bitterness contributes to a loss of joy.

C.     Loss of spiritual growth.

1.     Mt. 5:23-24 – bitter heart can make it near impossible for God’s word to penetrate the heart.

D.     Bitterness can lead to our taking vengeance.  Rom. 12:19-21

E.     Bitterness leads to hatred.

F.     Bitterness can lead to eternal danger.

1.     Col. 3:13-14 – bitterness can lead to & become a sin of unforgiveness.

                                              a.     We do not let go of our bitterness, we will not be forgiven.

2.     Mt. 6:14-15 – speaks for itself.

III. The cure for bitterness.

A.     Acknowledge it.  (The suggestion on Friday’s card).

B.     Resolve the source of bitterness.

1.     Mt. 5:23-24; Mt. 18:15 – Don’t hold it in. Don’t complain to others about the person you have a problem with.

2.     Go to the person…tactfully…in a spirit of love – Eph. 4:32

C.     Pray about it.  Phil. 4:6

D.     Repent of sinful behavior.  This is not a badge of honor. 1 John 1:9

Conclusion:

A.     Never justification for the Christian to be bitter/resentful.

B.     Heb. 3:14-15