Bitterness is a seed that, if left unchecked, can take root and grow into destruction. It poisons our hearts and leads us down dangerous paths.

Do we know the story of Absalom? When we read it, we can see how he struggled with it and the consequences that it brought to him and his family.

In 2 Samuel 13, Absalom’s anger began because of the injustice dealt to his sister Tamar. Absalom was silent; but this only masked his growing hatred. Instead of seeking vengeance immediately, he let bitterness fester, planned his revenge and exacted the murder of Amnon, his half-brother.

"Be angry, and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger."

Ephesians 4:26

Festered bitterness, even if justified, can make us the very thing we despise. Years later, the very sin Absalom condemned, he also committed in the sight of all Israel (2 Sam 16:21-22).

When we nurture bitterness and resentment in our hearts, we also become vulnerable. We seek external validation for our emotions; we seek support.

Absalom knew this and took advantage of it. With his flattering words, Absalom justified the people’s grievances and fed fuel to their growing hatred towards the king (2 Samuel 15:2-6). This allowed Absalom to gain support from the people and eventually led to a revolt against his own father.

"With seductive speech she persuades him… all at once he follows her, as an ox goes to the slaughter."

Proverbs 7:21-22

How often do we allow our resentment to blind us? Do we only listen to voices that fuel and justify our anger and neglect the voices that oppose us? The people listened to Absalom not because he was just, but because he fully supported their complaints.

In the same way, bitterness can make us easy prey. It is a dangerous poison which waits to consume us.

The murder of Ammon, the wrongful act done to Tamar, and Absalom pursuing and wanting David’s throne; all these happened to David’s children. Was David bitter towards God’s punishment for his sin with Bathsheba? Did David doubt God’s goodness?

No. David even praised God in the multiple psalms he has written. In his heart, he was very sure that God was just.

He trusted God’s decision.

"Time can heal all wounds—but only if we allow God to use it wisely. May God search our hearts and know our wicked thoughts daily, so that we can be pleasing to Him."