photo by Kai-jens Meyer

“See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no ”root of bitterness” springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled;” Romans 12:15 ESV

Bitterness is like a weed that seeks to entwine itself around our soul and squeeze out our joy.

A child’s worldview is shaped by millions of moments, most of which he will forget. Even as adults, our minds can only retain so much. One memory crowds out the next.

We must choose our memories.

Each heart “knows its own bitterness.” We all face trials and challenges in our Christian walk. Sometimes they are big, sometimes small, but they are always present. Present to refine us, humble us, mold us and show us God’s mercy.

Looking back on the past though, we have a choice. The trials may be emblazoned on our memory. We must choose to not let their pain make us bitter, but to remind us of God’s mercy as He led us through it.

We must deal with the past. Repent of the sin. Work through the wrongs. But we cannot let the past poison the present.

We must choose to think on the ways that God showered us with His love in the past. To focus on the good times spent with our parents, rather than the few bad memories most children have. To treasure the many blissful moments as a wife, rather than stew over the few rough times. To treasure the hugs and giggles of toddlerhood, rather than begrudge the lost sleep and the drama and tears.

We must choose to remember joy.