Daily Devotional
Word of the Day
Bitter or Better?
Pastor Scott
Sunday, June 20, 2004
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"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;"
(Hebrews 12:15)
The process of holiness and perfection can cause us to become very weary; therefore, Hebrews 12 says, "Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees; And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed. Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: 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" (12:12-15). If you don't understand the love of God, all of the chastisement, reproof, and requirements placed on you will bring about a root of bitterness. Jesus said, "I would that you be hot or cold" (Rev. 3:15). Chastisement will not leave you neutral. You will thank God for those in your life who have disciplined you.
Moms, dads, brothers, and sisters who bring reproof and instruction, the circumstances and the pressures on the job are all put in your life to reveal those things that are lacking. Some of you despise your employers and have almost a root of bitterness toward them; yet they are put there for your good. We want God somehow to bring forth judgment and rain destruction upon them, but all they are doing is bringing out all the crud in our lives that needs to be exposed. I am not saying they are righteous; I am saying that they might be one of God's instruments, such as a Pharaoh. The problem is not them; it's you. What are you doing with the circumstances of life that you find yourself in today? Are you letting them make you bitter, or are you letting them make you better? That is what determines your sonship.
When Jesus says He is pleased, then what does it matter what anybody else thinks? When your mom and dad tell you how they love you and how good of a job you're doing, then don't believe any other source. Let those that you respect speak the truth to you to bring the fullness and contentment. It's not over yet. God is still working in you. If you finish, you'll be exalted. "And even as I have overcome, I will grant you to sit with me on My throne" (Rev. 3:21). It's not over yet. God has some chastening and reproving. There are things in you that need to change, but, beloved, you are going to be like Him when we see Him, and we'll rule and reign with Him and hear, "Well done."