“…looking carefully lest anyone
fall short of the grace of God,
lest any root of bitterness springing up
cause trouble, and by this many become defiled…”
Hebrews 12:15

I used to think this was referring to how bitterness defiles the person bearing it, and of course it does. But it’s more than that. The very air around a person carrying bitterness is defiled when the bitter person speaks out, contaminating the atmosphere around him and defiling the listeners by the bitter words he speaks.

When a bitter person levels hateful words against a believer, the only remedy is to run to the Throne of God for help. God will surely help a hurting son or daughter coming to him stung with the fiery darts of a bitter person.

Above all, do not nurture the sting by dwelling on it, by obsessing over it, no, take it to the Lord who will provide the grace needed, and who alone can give the peace that passes understanding.

Always remember – our battle is not against flesh and blood (Ephesians 6:12). Recognize these things as attacks from your malicious enemy, Satan, who delights in those who obsess over hurtful words or unfair dealings. Don’t give him the satisfaction. Humble yourself before the Lord and seek his comforting and his grace to overcome.