Rev Nicholas Anane-Agyei
By Pastor Nick Anane-Agyei – Bitterness is a roadblock to success. Unlike betrayal which comes from an external force through loved ones, bitterness is self destructive and can easily prevent us from reaching our God giving potential. Let’s agree with Apostle Paul and look diligently, lest we fall of the grace of God; which troubles us and thereby defiles us. (Heb. 12:15). Because of the destructive power bitterness, Apostle Paul again admonished us to let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from us and thereby being kind to one another (Eph. 4:31-32).
Beloved, let’s take note that bitterness is a dangerous venom and it is very destructive. It can weaken us and prevent us from achieving anything good in life. Many have failed in life by drinking or accepting this deadly poison in their life. It is self inflicted and attack our soul whereas betrayal, the cause of bitterness, is external, coming from our loved ones. We have the power to control its influence over every area of our life.
We may have all experienced betrayal one-way or the other in our lives. There have been moments where an unfaithful mate, family member, a co-worker or a boss did turn their back to us when we have given our best. These situations do really hurt but let’s follow the steps of our Lord Jesus Christ for healing. He was betrayed by a loved one with a kiss yet He did not allow such external influence of betrayal overcome Him to build up any internal force of destruction through the root of bitterness.
Jesus, on the other hand, kept His eyes on the duty entrusted to Him by His father above and endured the cross. He also believed in the gifts of God over His life. He went on to keep His position as the Son of God. He did not allow the words and actions of people throw Him off board. Instead, He went on to love them and offered prayers for them even when on the cross.
I ask you therefore to let go of any pain or bitterness that may have gained root in you through any act of betrayal from a loved one. Rather, pray diligently for them. Ask God to bless them for in this will your light shine. Remember, it was when Job prayed for his friends who spoke negatively about him in times of his illness that God blessed him with double of all he had lost (Job 42: 7-17). Scripture ask us to love and bless our enemies (Rom 12:14). When Joseph also saw his brothers who betrayed him and even sold him into a far country, he forgave them (Gen.45:1- 9). He went on to say that “you meant it for evil; but God had a different plan which is good” (Gen, 50:20). If you can see your pain as God’s plan to launch you into another level of your destiny, you will thank Him and bless His name knowing that all things works together for good to them that love Him; even to those who are called by His purpose (Rom. 8:28).
Don’t live your life based on what others think or say about you. Just enjoy the best of all that God has given to you. Live a life that will please Him who has called you and not any other person. Be happy in the Lord. Know also that you will never be in your present condition forever. Remember this statement in the Bible, ” it shall come to pass…………..” Whatever that God has said concerning you, it shall surely come to pass. He will perfect all that concerns you because of His love, mercy and faithfulness (Psalm 138:8).
I pray that God will bring joy back into your life in Jesus name. May you be granted with much strength to let go of your pain. May you be healed from the pain of bitterness. May you see your pain as a spring board to launch you into your God ordained destiny. I pray that you will become planted and rooted in the Blood of our King. May His favor shine upon you today in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. You are a blessed with the blessings of God.
Pastor Nicholas Anane-Agyei is the Host pastor of Inner Court Sanctuary (Praise Palace). at 1660 East Gun Hill Road
Bronx, New York, 10469 . You can e-mail him @ naa@praisepalace.org or visit the church website at www.praisepalace.org.
