Unforgivness

“See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and by it many be defiled.” Hebrews 12:15

     I touched on forgiveness a bit yesterday, but what about unforgiveness which causes a root of bitterness? It is kind of like a tiny seed which takes root, spouts, and grows stronger and bigger every day. 

     Imagine planting a seed in a small bucket. The seed takes root underneath the ground spreading into many roots, like anger, malice, hostility, bitterness, and resentment. Pretty soon the roots twist and tangle. They struggle for moisture, air, and nutrients. Yet, the plant above ground is continuing to grow fuller and bigger until, at some point, it suddenly wilts and dies from lack of being fed properly. The roots have become so entangled, the air supply is choked off.  

     That is what unforgiveness in our lives appears to look like for me. To heal and be healthy, we need to be able to forgive. Many times, we choose to forgive, not for the person being forgiven but for our own self. It removes the sickness in our hearts and minds. We breathe easier, we think more clearly, we regain peace and joy.