No one can avoid frustration and disappointment in its lifetime. Some are very hurtful and bitter yet we try to handle this sadness on my own. But it will never be successful and eventually it fails.
The book of Ruth tells about a woman named Naomi who struggled with a heart of grief thatgrew into bitterness. Her husband died in a foreign land, and ten years later both her sons died. She was left destitute with her daughters-in-law, Ruth and Orpah (1:3–5). When Naomi and Ruth returned to Naomi’s home country, the whole town was excited to see them. But Naomi told her friends: “The Almighty has made my life very bitter. . . . The Lord has afflicted me” (vv. 20–21). She even asked them to call her “Mara,” meaning bitter.
When we acknowledge to ourselves and God what’s happening deep in our hearts, our tender Gardener can help us dig up any roots of bitterness – whether they’re still small or have been buried deep down for years – and can replace them with a sweet, joyful spirit.
God, help me to see the goodness in life you’re always displaying. And dig up any root of bitterness in my heart that dishonors You.
______________________________________________________________________________