One
of the signs 
bitterness
is the tendency
to
make "judgements" and set "verdicts"
on
those that have wronged us or
shamed
us or even done us harm.
To
understand this, just think of a time when a family member or a close friend
shamed you by ignoring you or said something they didn't like about
you.
We bristle!
We begin to
"judge" them as being thoughtless, uncaring, self-centered, a bad choice for a
spouse or a friend, and we let that "verdict" 
against them...
against them...
settle into our hearts
to protect ourselves from the deeper pain from the insult, yes, the deeper,
almost unbearable pain of being un-loveable, worthless, no-good, ugly, or
abandoned.
It isn't really the harm
done to us by others that we need to get "settled" with God in prayer, it is
these deeper beliefs that come as a result of others' thoughtless or intentional
words or deeds. Have a conversation with God: Am I truly un-loveable?
God, I believe I'm ugly....they just said it, and I remember when
my Aunt told me that when I was young. Listen in the quietness of your soul for
God's response... God... what do you think about me? Do you think I am
worthless? He wants to speak to the very depth of your pain where lies about
yourself are lurking. It is here you will get free of the wrongdoing of others.
Judgment and verdict
are the "stuff" bitterness and hatred is made of. Anger, a fruit
of bitterness makes us irrational and makes situations so much
worse.
are the "stuff" bitterness and hatred is made of. Anger, a fruit
of bitterness makes us irrational and makes situations so much
worse.
Getting free of our lies
by drawing into the court room of our God, is where love begins and grows. Even
the most horrible wrong done against us can be dealt with once we have that
inner peace. 
Our decisions become more rational, our actions more precise and we usually make
situations better. How wonderful it is to be free of the "power"
that others have over me when I am in the midst of judging and giving
verdicts.
Our decisions become more rational, our actions more precise and we usually make
situations better. How wonderful it is to be free of the "power"
that others have over me when I am in the midst of judging and giving
verdicts.
When
we become more adept at easily recognize signs of bitterness in
ourselves, we can begin to take bitterness to prayer and have the Lord
gently but surely release us from this strangle hold that it has on us, one
layer at a time. You see, even bad emotions can be turned around for the good.
They can actually be the
impetus for our healing and holiness. Don't run away from them, afraid to see
the ugliness that lies there. Be patient with yourself. We can be free indeed.
Oh, Happy
Lent!
Sharon
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