Read Hebrews 12:12-17
After touching on the peaceful fruit of righteousness, the writer of the book of Hebrews further encouraged the people of God to strengthen themselves and strive to be at peace with everyone (vs. 12-14). He urged the Church to “make straight paths for our feet”, so that “what is lame may be healed” (vs.13). Are there areas in your life that are “lame”, weak and causing you to stumble in your walk with God? Do not give up. Instead, walk on in faith. “Do not swerve to the right or to the left; turn your foot from evil (Prov. 4:27),” knowing well that healing and restoration is at hand.
Nevertheless, in the midst of pressing on, we also need to take heed of the warning found in verse 15 – where the author warns against the “root of bitterness,” that springs up and causes trouble not only to one’s self, but to others as well, defiling many. Whether it be a broken relationship, a child who intentionally rebels against his or her parents, or even division in the Body of Christ – most problems can be traced back to a root of bitterness, which has found its way into the heart through offence, resentment and unforgiveness.
Could it be that in spite of your good intentions, you are still reaping bad fruits because you have not uprooted a bitter root in your life? Obtain the grace of God and do what it takes to uproot that bitter root from your heart.
Adopted from NECF 40-days Fast and Prayer