A confession of bitterness & a decision toward grace

 

“Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God. Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many.” (Hebrews 12:15)

An observation:

If we care for one another, 

God gives us grace.

If we don’t care for one another, we don’t get grace from anyone.

Bitterness is a weed that overtakes a garden

until it has choked out every plant that was once beautiful and productive

until the garden becomes useless and ugly.

Bitterness prevents blessing.

A prayer:

Oh, Lord,

I confess my bitterness 

and my lack of trust in you to direct me in all things.

I’ve resented you allowing weeds into my life.

My heart has not been fertile or productive lately.

It has been a garden of weeds

instead of a garden of flowers.

Please forgive me

and help me develop the courage to rip out every weed

and prune back every thought and habit that doesn’t honor you.

I confess holding grudges,

distrusting your care,

and protecting self-pity.

I forgive those who’ve sinned against me.

I will name them by name and give them into your care, 

where they belong.

I seek your face, your heart, and your hands.

Your grace amazes me!

Groom in my a spirit of grace and forgiveness for everyone!

In Jesus’ name, 

Amen.