Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior.
(Ephesians 4:31 NIV)
You have a right to feel angry, but not bitter! Yes, you are within your rights to feel angry, but you do not have the right to destroy one of God’s creatures—yourself.
In the Bible, bitterness is always viewed as sin because it results from a choice. The feeling of anger cannot be avoided, but bitterness results from a daily choice to let anger live in your heart. Thus, in Ephesians 4, Paul directs believers to get rid of bitterness. The author of Hebrews warns us not to let bitterness take root, lest it corrupt us and turn us away from the faith (see Hebrews 12:15). We must confess bitterness as sin and accept God’s forgiveness.
Still, it’s important to realize that a one-time confession of bitterness may not alleviate all hostile feelings. If you have been harboring the bitterness for a long time, the feelings that accompany the bitter attitude may be slow to die.
What do you do when thoughts and feelings of anger and bitterness return? You might pray, “Father, you know what I’m thinking and feeling, but I have given those emotions to you. Now help me to do something good with my life today.” Regardless of the circumstances, let God love your spouse through you.
Father, sometimes I want to hold on to my anger and bitterness. It feels good momentarily, but over time it hardens my heart and changes the way I view my spouse. I confess my bitterness to you and ask for your forgiveness. Please help me to let it go—now and each time it comes back.