They say don’t judge a book by the cover, but sometimes the cover is actually pretty phenomenal. How to Be Free From Bitterness by Jim Wilson is one of those books you want to pick up because of the cover. Once you dig into the book itself, the image on the front is much more impactful and its message steps on our toes.
How to Be Free From Bitterness is a short and simple read that packs a powerful punch of a message. Written to those of the Christian faith, it addresses the important things of life and obligations of the Christian walk. Though it’s title tells us we’re going to explore the idea of bitterness, it’s actually more of a deep dive into our relationships.
Bitterness is that nasty poison that plagues us when we’ve been wronged and failed to forgive the one who hurt us. It’s the spawn of anger and resentment that has impregnated our hearts. Don’t skip this book thinking you don’t have a problem with bitterness – you may be quite surprised what you learn about yourself. Make sure you wear some thick shoes because your toes will get stepped on. Of course, conviction can be a great thing because it prompts us toward change and growth – necessary things for maturing Christians.
Wilson’s incorporation and application of biblical scripture and wisdom is spot on. His message is clear and direct, and it’s easy to relate his teachings to the relationships in your life. He doesn’t sugar coat his message, but he does deliver it with care – knowing that our struggle is that of all mankind. Healthy relationships are a vital part to a happy life and to living out the Christian faith, so Wilson explores the issues that hinder us and those relationships.
Freeing ourselves (better yet, letting God free us) from bitterness requires us to take some actions. Wilson talks about forgiving others – something that can be hard, but is commanded of Christians. He explores anger, rage, the words that leave our tongues, the things we take offense to, and the practice of introspection. These chapters paint a picture of the struggles and sins of Christians and how to combat them.
The chapters on our relationship with our parents, saturation love, and expectations are particularly eye opening, and I cannot wait to hear any revelations you have from those chapters. At the end of each chapter, you’ll find study guide questions. These can be done in individual study or in a small group study. I could have done without the letters to the author at the end of each chapter, but I can appreciate the impact these writings had on those who sent in the letters.
Grab a copy of this book if you’re struggling with bitterness or in your relationships. Send a copy to a friend who is going through a hard time in a relationship or lingering in the hurt of a past one. Bitterness is difficult to rid ourselves, but Wilson shows us God’s plans for being free of its burdens – and that is something to celebrate.