What You Feed Grows
Obadiah is one of the minor prophets in the Bible, his prophecies were against The Edomites. They were the descendants of Esau, Jacob’s brother. The Edomites are the epitome of what happens when we let bitterness control our lives. For generations the bitter root grew, the Edomites would not help their brother Israel in the wilderness, when they were attacked and looted in war, and they scoffed and mocked Israel’s pain. They lived in the mountains where they felt they were untouchable, and were by man. Yet Obadiah tells them God will no longer tolerate their arrogance and them gloating over Israel. They will be brought down.
“The pride of your heart has deceived you, You who dwell in the clefts of the rock, Whose habitation is high; You who say in your heart, ‘Who will bring me down to the ground?’ Though you ascend as high as the eagle, And though you set your nest among the stars, From there I will bring you down,” says the Lord.” Obadiah 1:3-4
We all know people like this, even families who are bitter at each other. My first thought is how bitter roots, if not dealt with will set us up for destruction. Then I ask God to reveal and deal with any bitter root in my own heart. Immediately my thoughts turn to how I talk when a discussion occurs on a matter or person that has offended me. Since Jesus said says, “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” (Luke 6:45). I figure that’s a good gauge to weigh bitter roots. Jesus also said,
“But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Matthew 6:15
Forgiving others is for our own good, so I must examine my heart and be careful not to feed bitter roots by how I talk. I know I must not entertain thoughts about people and hurts of the past; just let it go period! When you think about it, it is so freeing to forgive, sometimes that means over and over with the same person, even forgiving ourselves. May we speak life or nothing at all. God will heal your heart, but you must give him all the pieces. Choose to live free!
Live Strong
Eugene