Do you find yourself frustrated with Christians who are slow to catch the missions vision? What about churches and church leaders? Is it hard for you to understand or justify the way other believers spend their time, money and energy?
If you answered “yes” to the above questions, you are probably dealing with bitterness. Other good indicators of bitterness are that you feel a part of a select, elite group and are sometimes angry with those who are uninterested. You even feel a twinge of judgment every now and then. Be honest. Let’s deal with it.
And let’s start by calling it what it is, bitterness comes from pride. So let’s get rid of it…but HOW? First, pray and ask God for forgiveness. Also, understand your role as a World Christian and try to grasp how that fits with the rest of the Body. Your role is one of a vision caster. You will most likely be a step ahead of some but be patient.
Also understand that the Body is made of many unique parts that, when unified, function properly. Bitterness toward other members of the Body breaks this unity. (Eph. 4:1-4) (1 Cor. 12:14-27) Ephesians 4:31-32 tells us to put off bitterness by putting on kindness, compassion and forgiveness.
Apply these to your prayer time for those who have not yet caught the vision of God’s heart for the world. Remember that not so long ago, you yourself were unenlightened and God graciously opened your eyes. Pray He would do the same for them.
These additions to your prayer life, along with meditation on the given scriptures will cultivate a spirit of humility and brokenness toward those who are slow to understand. With that heart and mindset, continue to share and press on in the work of God’s Kingdom.
By Jessica A
