--BE IMITATORS OF GOD~~

--"Get rid of all bitterness." --[Ephesians 4:31]

--"Be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love,
just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us....."
--[Ephesians 5:1-2] -
--[RUTH / Old Testament / lineage of Jesus]

---The book of Ruth tells about a woman named Naomi who struggled with a heart of grief and grew into bitterness. Her husband died in a foreign land, and ten years later both her sons died. She was left destitute with her daughters-in-law, Ruth and Orpah (1:3-5). When Naomi and Ruth returned to Naomi's home country, the whole town was excited to see them. But Naomi told her friends: "The Almighty has made my life very bitter... The LORD has afflicted me" (vv.20-21). She even asked them to call her "Mara," meaning bitter.

Who hasn't faced disappointment and been tempted toward bitterness? Someone says something hurtful, an expectation isn't met, or demands from others make us resentful. When we acknowledge to ourselves and God what's happening deep in our hearts, our tender Gardener, Jesus , can help us dig up any roots of bitterness--whether they're still small or have been growing for years--and can replace them with a sweet, joyful spirit of forgiveness and love. ~~

--"LORD G-D, help me to see the goodness in life You are always displaying. And dig up any root of bitterness in my heart that dishonors You. Help me show others Your love. In Jesus Name."
--ODB/AC~ (This is a beautiful song. If it is missing, perhaps go to youtube and be blessed.)
--"By Our Love" // (lyric video) Christy Nockels) --<https://youtu.be/nAeI43Z8pLQ>
~~~~~