21ST FEBRUARY 2024

 

*OUR DAILY WISDOM-21ST FEBRUARY, 2024* 

Title: Overcoming Offense and Bitterness

Scripture: Ephesians 4:31-32 (NIV) - "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."

Greetings Beloved!

How was you night?

Hope you are feeling well in Jesus name.

Have you had an experience where someone you been helping all the time suddenly turned against you because your fortunes and resources changed ?

Or the very person Gossiping about you or tarnishing your image is someone from your family?

Most of the time, these negative things happen to us the more one becomes a believer.

How do we reflect Jesus in these occasions?

In our journey of faith, it's essential to guard our hearts against the destructive forces of offense and bitterness. The Word of God in Ephesians 4:31-32 reminds us to let go of bitterness, anger, and malice, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness and compassion. Holding onto offense hinders our spiritual growth and damages our relationships.

As Christians, we are called to reflect the forgiving nature of Christ. When we harbor bitterness, we disrupt the peace and unity God desires for His children. Remember that forgiveness is not condoning the wrongdoing but releasing the hold it has on your heart.

 *PRAYER ADVANTAGE* 

Wisdom Prayer Points:

 *1.Self-Reflection* : Pray for self-awareness to recognize any seeds of bitterness or offense taking root in your heart. Ask God to reveal areas that need healing and forgiveness.

2. *Forgiving Spirit:* Seek God's strength to cultivate a forgiving spirit, understanding that forgiveness is an act of obedience and love. Pray for the grace to forgive others as Christ forgave you.

3. *Renewed Mind:* Pray for a renewed mind that focuses on the positive, casting aside negativity and dwelling on the principles of love and kindness outlined in God's Word.

 *4.Guarded Heart:* Ask God to help you guard your heart against bitterness and offense, empowering you to respond with grace even in challenging situations.

 *5.Reconciliation* : Pray for the courage to pursue reconciliation where possible, trusting God to mend broken relationships and restore harmony.

 *Concluding Prayer* :

Heavenly Father, we come before you with humble hearts, acknowledging our need for Your guidance in overcoming offense and bitterness. Grant us the strength to release any grudges we may be holding onto and replace them with Your love and forgiveness. Help us cultivate a spirit of kindness and compassion in all our interactions. May our lives reflect the transformative power of Your grace. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

 *TESTIMONY CHRISTIAN FOUNDATION INTERNATIONAL, NYC,USA*