The third angel blew his trumpet, and a great star fell from heaven, blazing like a torch, and it fell on a third of the rivers and on the springs of water. The name of the star is Wormwood. A third of the waters became wormwood, and many people died from the water, because it had been made bitter. (Revelation 8:10-11)
The imagery of Revelation is powerful and complex, and also multi-layered in its application. Is this a passage about a cataclysmic event that will take place at the time of the end? Yes. But can we also find in it a principal for how we live our lives now? Absolutely.
Jesus said that all who come and receive His life will find within them “a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” (John 4:14) So, what happens when that spring becomes sour? What happens when our inner life becomes poisoned with bitterness, unforgiveness, and all their friends?
We die inside.
If Jesus wants to give us water of life, then the enemy of our souls wants to deceive us into letting that source grow bitter. Don’t give in to him! Don’t give ground to it!
No matter what steps you need to take or how hard it seems to be, look to Christ and draw on His strength to help you forgive. Let go of your bitterness and give it to Jesus. Let go of your hurt and give it to God. Release them today and receive the fresh water of life instead, because if you don’t, you can be sure of this truth.
Bitterness will kill your soul.
–Pastor Phillip
