Lessons for Life with James Long, Jr.
Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join James, a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life's biggest questions and helps us find God's solutions to life's struggles. Learn the power of living by God's grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are on a search for freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show!
Lessons for Life with James Long, Jr.
Bitterness is Destructive
Pastor James, with his rich experience as a pastor, counselor, and university professor, passionately guides you through biblical insights and practical advice to recognize and combat the subtle signs of unforgiveness and resentment. Learn how to let go of past hurts, forgive as God has forgiven you, and build a supportive network of fellow believers. By applying these timeless principles, you can unlock the freedom and joy of living a life untainted by bitterness. Don't miss this empowering discussion aimed at helping you walk in God's grace and for His glory.
ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE
Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show!
Links
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Today's topic is bitterness is destructive. Bitterness is like a hidden root that grows slowly unnoticed but eventually spreads and infects everything around it. As believers, we are called to guard our hearts against this dangerous root. Bitterness does not just harm the one who holds on to it. It spreads to others, causing damage in relationships and disrupting our spiritual growth. Hebrews, chapter 12, verse 15, warns us about the serious consequences of allowing bitterness to take root in our hearts.
Speaker 1:Well, my name is James Long Jr. I'm a pastor, counselor and university professor. Welcome to Lessons for Life, where I help people whose pain from their past or their present is influencing their perspective on life Through teaching them about a person, jesus Christ, principles and promises from God's Word and giving them a pathway for change. My goal is to guide you towards peace, hope and joy. In today's session, we will be exploring how God's truth can transform your life and how to experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Christ alone. Well, the passage of scripture that we will be looking at today is found in Hebrews 12, verse 15. It says this see to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God and that no root of bitterness springs up and causes trouble and by it many become defiled. Well, here's the devotional thought In this verse we are reminded of our responsibility to watch over one another, ensuring no one misses out on God's grace.
Speaker 1:Bitterness can sneak into our lives when we hold on to anger, resentment or past hurts. Instead of confronting these emotions biblically, we may let them fester and soon enough they grow into bitterness. The reference to a root of bitterness is powerful. Roots are usually hidden underground, but they can be deep and hard to remove once established. Bitterness works the same way Hidden at first, but over time it causes emotional and spiritual damage. It can affect your peace, your relationship with others and your relationship with God. Deuteronomy 29.18 speaks of the danger of turning away from God and the bitter consequences that follow. When we choose bitterness, we risk distancing ourselves from God's grace, robbing ourselves of the peace and joy that he offers, from God's grace, robbing ourselves of the peace and joy that he offers. Moreover, bitterness is contagious, as Hebrews says. It causes trouble and defiles many, impacting not only the individual but the entire community. However, the good news is that God's grace is available to help us overcome bitterness. By recognizing its presence and surrendering it to God, we can uproot it before it destroys our spiritual health and our relationships, bringing it home applying what we've learned.
Speaker 1:Three points. Number one guard your heart. Bitterness often begins in subtle ways. Regularly examine your heart for any sign of unforgiveness, resentment or anger. Number two pursue forgiveness. God calls us to forgive others, as he has forgiven us. Holding on to hurt only feeds bitterness, but forgiveness frees us. Number three seek accountability. Surround yourself with fellow believers who will help you to identify and to deal with bitterness before it takes root.
Speaker 1:Well, let's pray Father, thank you for your grace that enables us to forgive and release bitterness. Help me to guard my heart and not let bitterness take root. Show me areas where I may be holding on to anger or unforgiveness and give me the strength to forgive, as you have forgiven me. May my life be a reflection of your grace and may I encourage others to walk in peace and forgiveness, purchased by your precious son, the Lord Jesus Christ. In his name we pray, amen. Well, thank you for joining me today. If you found this lesson helpful, I encourage you to explore more resources and support on my website, jameslongjrorg that's jameslongjrorg. There you can also join our Lessons for Life monthly membership or our online group coaching program, where you will find powerful coaching videos, a supportive community and step-by-step guidance for lasting transformation. Where you will find powerful coaching videos, a supportive community and step-by-step guidance for lasting transformation. Remember, true change is possible when you walk in God's grace and for His glory. Until next time, may you find peace, hope and joy in Christ alone. Blessings.
