DAILY READINGS: Joshua 22:1-34; Isaiah 15:1-16:14; 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12
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
Before there is a root there needs to be a seed. What is the seed that develops into bitterness? Often bitterness is the result of a hurt that one has experienced. If my heart harbours hostility it will be fertile soil for a hurt to germinate into bitterness. We all get hurt one way or another at times, but how can I prevent my heart from becoming bitter? Our verse teaches us to look diligently at the grace of God. As we appreciate the forgiveness we’ve received, it will become easier to forgive others who have hurt us. —Sid Halsband
How sweet the name of Jesus sounds, in a believer’s ear!
It soothes our sorrows, heals our wounds, and drives away our fear. —John Newton