Rooted in Grace, Not in Bitterness

"See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many." — Hebrews 12:15

David Jeremiah, in his book Slaying the Giants in Your Life, shares the tragic story of Leonard Holt, a man who seemed to embody everything good about community life. Leonard was a hard-working company man employed at a paper mill in Pennsylvania. Outside of work, he was a dedicated volunteer with the Boy Scouts, an active member of the local fire station, and a faithful churchgoer. He spent quality time with his children and was widely respected by those who knew him. By all appearances, Leonard was the picture of a model citizen—loved and admired by his community.

But one day, Leonard walked into the paper mill and fired 30 rounds, leaving multiple casualties in his wake. The shocking act stunned everyone who knew him. How could a man who seemed so composed, kind, and committed to doing good descend into such violence?

As investigators delved into his life, they uncovered a toxic emotion festering beneath Leonard's outwardly calm and respectable exterior: bitterness. For 19 years, Leonard had worked hard and given his best at the mill, yet he watched as others, often less experienced, were promoted ahead of him. This perceived injustice planted the seeds of resentment in his heart, growing quietly until it completely consumed him. Bitterness, hidden behind his smiles and good deeds, eventually drove Leonard to a breaking point.
The tragic culmination of this bitterness shocked not only his community but the entire country. Leonard’s story made the cover of Time Magazine with the haunting caption: “Responsible, Respectable, Resentful.” [David Jeremiah, Slaying the Giants in Your Life (Nashville, TN: W Pub., 2001), 120-121.]

This sobering account reminds us of the destructive power of bitterness. Left unchecked, it can grow beneath the surface and lead to devastating consequences—not only for ourselves but for those around us.

Bitterness is often an invisible toxin, growing beneath the surface like a root. While others may not see it, its effects become evident in our actions, relationships, and even our spiritual health. Hebrews 12:15 warns us that bitterness not only damages us but spreads to others, "defiling many." It whispers lies that we deserve to hold onto our grudges, but in reality, it poisons our peace and joy.

The antidote to bitterness is found in the grace of God. When we fix our eyes on the cross and remember how freely God forgave us, we are empowered to uproot bitterness and choose forgiveness.

Reflection Question: Is there a "root of bitterness" growing in your heart? How can God's grace help you release it?

Lord, search my heart and reveal any bitterness that may be taking root. Help me to let go of resentment and trust in Your grace. May I extend the forgiveness You have so freely given me to others. In Jesus' Name, amen.

From: "God's Answer for Bitterness": https://www.joshfranklin.org/media/s7kft67/4-god-s-answer-for-bitterness