Last Friday we celebrated our adoptive country’s 249th anniversary as an independent nation. On July 4, 1776, in the City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia, fifty-six men put their signatures on a piece of document that altered the direction of this country: Independence! But by putting down their signatures they also risked their lives to be hung on the gallows by the British government. Napoleon Hill, an inspirational self-help and leadership book’s author makes an astute comment about this momentous time in US history, “The value of decisions depends on the courage required to render them.” Their courage under fire was not in vain; God has blessed America.
The Book of Deuteronomy contains the farewell speech of Moses. Toward the end of his speech, he warned the nation of Israel to be faithful to the Lord God and not to turn to other gods and idols. In his words, “Make sure there is no root among you that produces such bitter poison” (29:18). That root that produces bitter poison is none other than gradual shift to other gods and idols. Sadly, Israel failed; throughout the times of the Judges and the Kings, this bitter poison took root and flourished, requiring God to punish them.
Root that produces bitter poison is present not only outside of our home; it is also in our home, isn’t it? It is not only in spiritual form, but also in mental and emotional form. We might think that we are giving our children medicine and supplements to make them strong but judging from their mental anguish, we are giving them poison. Consequently, they grow up feeling bitter and defeated, but what is worse is that they end up growing roots that produce bitter poison.
So, take heed. Make sure that we do not plant roots that produce bitter poison. Instead, plant roots that produce “fruit in its season.” We may not see the fruit yet but in its season, it will bear fruit.
Pastor Paul