Resentment/unforgiveness/bitterness can keep the Christian from being what God has called him or her to be. It not only destroys relationships, but those characteristics can block the Christian's relationship with God. For example...God tells us, “Now to sum up, all of you be like-minded, sympathetic, brotherly, tender-hearted, and humble in spirit; 9 not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but giving a blessing instead, for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing. (1 Peter 3:8-9)

What are some of the “blessings” for those who overcome “resentment/unforgiveness/bitterness?” The Christian's Christ-like character will strengthen their trust, love, and relationship with God, but even the Mayo Clinic has a list. In one of the Clinic's “Adult Health” articles it pointed out: “Letting go of grudges and bitterness can make way for improved health and peace of mind. Forgiveness can lead to: Healthier relationships; Improved mental health; Less anxiety, stress and hostility; Fewer symptoms of depression; Lower blood pressure; A stronger immune system; Improved heart health; Improved self-esteem.”

You've probably heard of the man or woman who was hitting themselves on their heads with a hammer, and then, they discover how much better it feels when they stop hitting themselves and put their hammers away. Silly illustration, but that's the way it is when we put our grudges and bitterness away and find the peace and joy God has intended for us. For some, it will be harder than others, but it will be self-destructive in our relationship with God and others if we don't. How is this possible? The Apostle Paul writing under the inspiration of God writes this:

Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, 2 fulfill my joy, that you think the same way, by maintaining the same love, being united in spirit, thinking on one purpose, 3 doing nothing from selfish ambition or vain glory, but with humility of mind regarding one another as more important than yourselves, 4 not merely looking out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. 5 Have this way of thinking in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus.... 13 for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure. 14 Do all things without grumbling or disputing, 15 so that you will be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, 16 holding fast the word of life (Philippians 2:1-16)

My prayer for you and me this day is this: Lord, we are so prone to demand our rights, our respect, our entitlements, that we seem to easily develop resentment toward those who seem to have trampled on them. Instead of resentment, give us the kind of love demonstrated by our Lord Jesus Christ toward sinners like us. We pray for His humility and love to be seen in us. Amen

Walk with the King today and be a blessing.