Page 6 - IR 2Q 2016

by Pastor Doug Batchelor

An Amazing Fact: The most bitter-

tasting substance known is the synthetic

chemical denatonium, sometimes known
as Bitrex. It is added to toxic substances,

such as antifreeze, household cleaners,

paints, nail polish, and rat poison, to prevent

accidental swallowing.
It is so bitter that even

when diluted to 10

parts per million, most

people will instantly
spit it out.

I

once heard a pastor share a chilling illustration about a Bitterness. Some people are controlled by it. They have

man in France who was bitten by a rabid dog. This was been treated cruelly and wish bad things would happen to their
years before a treatment had been discovered for rabies.
offenders. Some brood for years, tormented by memories of the

When it was determined the dog was indeed rabid, a kind doctor wounds they received. Sometimes they are so angry that they make

told the man he had only a short time to live. Upon hearing this
sure something bad does happen. But the Bible says that this is the
distressing news, the unfortunate man asked very worst possible “solution” to resolve the hurt in our lives.

the doctor for some paper and a pencil and The real solution to dealing with injustice from others is not

then commenced writing furiously.
vengeance, unchecked anger, or bitter brooding. It’s forgiveness. If
After a few minutes, the doctor you want to experience an abundant life in Jesus, you must learn

interrupted.“If you are
how to forgive those who have hurt you. The Bible says,“The devil

writing out your will, has come down to you, having great wrath, because he knows that
you have time. Think
he has a short time” (Revelation 12:12). Satan is the rancorous,

carefully about your angry, and vengeful one—and he is the instigator of our thoughts
estate; you still
of revenge.

have a few days.”
Seventy Times Seven
The patient
replied sharply, Jesus’ parable about forgiveness is one of the most essential

“I’m not making Bible stories for our time. Peter asked his Savior,“How often shall

out my will. I am
my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?”
making a list of (Matthew 18:21).

all the people
You might think Peter was a bit stingy with his mercy. Forgive

I’m going to bite someone only seven times? We often have to forgive our spouses
before I die!”
that much in a single week! But in the time of Christ, religious

6
Inside Report
2Q 2016