* You were at some point betrayed by someone you trusted .

* You are a victim of an abusive, unfaithful and disrespectful spouse, who left you with so much pain and sorrow.

* You were publicly humiliated. 

* You were hurt by a parent through abuse , neglect and favoritism toward another siblings.

* You were spoken negatively by another behind your back. 

* You were denied of your promotion at work when you deserve it .

 * All this are common realities of life and painful experiences that is hard to let go. Our natural tendency is to be angry, but when it rapidly progresses it leads to BITTERNESS.

Bitterness is anger gone sour, an attitude of deep discontent that poisons our souls and destroys our peace. 

    Ephesians 4:3 (let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you along with all malice.

      CONSEQUENCES OF BITTERNESS 

1) Bitterness rubs us of the ability to enjoy our relationship with God (1Jonh 2:9-11). It will hinder our spiritual growth and maturity.

2) Emotional instability, (it can lead to depression and anxiety).

3) Bitterness affects your relationship with people and you. It can lead to inability to have a healthy relationship.

4) Takes away your joy and put you in bundage. (Proverbs 17:2; A merry heart doeth good like a medicine but a broken spirit drieth the bones).

5) Bitterness affects one's physical health. It can predispose one to high blood pressure, heart diseases etc.

HOW TO OVERCOME BITTERNESS.

FORGIVENESS; 

(Matt 6:14. For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly father will also forgive you. But If you do not forgive others their sins your father will not forgive your sin.

Forgiveness the healing or antidote for bitterness. It is the greatest remedy to overcome bitterness.

Forgive those who have 0ffended you from the heart.

HAVE A BLESSED AND FRUITFUL WEEK 

DR MRS CHIOMA UCHE UME