Overcoming Bitterness

Song: Looking To Thee

Scripture: Genesis 37:23-28

Joseph was a favored son until he was seventeen; suddenly he was deprived of every conceivable right or privilege serving as a slave until he was thirty (Genesis 37:2; 41:46). His brothers rejected him and sold him into slavery (Genesis 37:28). Potiphar put him in prison for a crime he did not commit (Genesis 39:20). Pharoah’s cup bearer received help from Joseph then left him in prison to rot (Genesis 40:14-15, 23). Throughout his stay in Egypt (93 years) he was subject to race prejudice (Genesis 39:14, 17; 43:32). Joseph was a prime canidate for bitterness. But Joseph exercised a freedom that could not be taken from him – the freedom to choose his attitude toward life, others and GOD.

Joseph's Focus. The most often used word in the life of Joseph is GOD (19x). As Joseph faced difficult circumstances He learned a valuable life lesson: It is not the circumstance, it is GOD in the circumstance!

Know the LORD. The answer to bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, evil speaking, malice (you name it) is a deep conviction with reference to the existence and nature of GOD, a deep confidence in GOD and faith in the GOD who can be trusted in all circumstances!

Looking Unto Jesus. If Jesus is not what you're focused on, what is? If Jesus is not enough, you will have to consider whether He is anything in your life. Cast the burden of bitterness upon Him, for He cares for you.

Jason Cicero