Do you have unforgiveness that consistently shows up as bitterness? (94-2)
Hebrews 12:14-15 says, “Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.” Every leader could find reasons to be bitter. You will have an idea stolen by someone that prospers, you will make one mistake and an unforgiving boss delays or eliminates your potential for promotion, you have your reputation damaged or destroyed by an unethical co-worker and the reasons for bitterness can go on and on. Effective leaders seek God’s grace and do whatever has to be done to destroy a bitter root in their emotions before it can grow and cause trouble. Read 2 Samuel 13 and 14.
Absalom appeared to be a born leader. Not only was he the son of a king, but he also possessed exceptionally good looks and a winsome personality. His sensitivity to the felt needs of the masses enabled him to win their loyalty. Unfortunately, Absalom used his influence to lead people in the wrong direction. He organized a revolution against his father, King David, which ultimately resulted in his own tragic death.
Perhaps the greatest lesson we can learn from Absalom’s failure is the destructive power of bitterness. Absalom had never relinquished his anger over the rape of his sister, Tamar, by Amnon, another of David’s sons. The king’s failure to punish Amnon had no doubt contributed to Absalom’s anger. Like a row of falling dominos, each event in Absalom’s life led to another tragedy. Absalom had set a trap for Amnon and had arranged for his death, an act that forced Absalom into hiding for three years. No sooner had Absalom and David been reunited than Absalom began using his influence to undermine the king’s position.
Ultimately, the tragedy could have been avoided if Absalom hadn’t allowed his anger to knock over the first domino. As you lead others, be aware that both your natural and cultivated leadership skills can be impaired by bitterness. Be ready to forgive when you or someone you love has been wronged. Effective leaders do not allow bitterness to grow and cause trouble and defile many.
Is there something you have left unforgiven that consistently shows up as bitterness in your actions toward others? Will you ask God to show you the root of your bitterness? Will you take the first step of repentance and ask God to forgive your attitude?
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