Bitter Quitter or Rejoicing Refugee? By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
"The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe." (Proverbs 18:10, NIV)
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Introduction
Life presents every individual with the choice of how to respond to challenges, adversities, and disappointments. Some people turn away from God, allowing bitterness and disobedience to dominate their hearts. Others choose to find refuge in the Lord, becoming rejoicing refugees who trust in His strength and promises. This teaching explores the contrasting paths of the bitter quitter and the rejoicing refugee, urging us to choose a life of faith, obedience, and trust in God.
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Bitterness: The Path of the Quitter
When individuals harbor bitterness, they set themselves on a destructive course. Bitterness arises from unforgiveness, disobedience, and a refusal to trust God’s Word. The Bible warns against allowing bitterness to take root, as it corrupts the heart and spreads to others.
"See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many." (Hebrews 12:15, NIV)
A bitter quitter departs from God’s promises, forsaking His ways for their own. They dwell in negativity, blaming others and circumstances for their hardships, instead of relying on God’s grace. Such individuals fail to experience the abundant life God intends for His children. Jesus Himself forgave His enemies, demonstrating the power of love and grace even in the face of immense suffering:
"Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." (Luke 23:34, NIV)
--- Refuge in the Lord: The Way of the Rejoicing Refugee
In contrast, a rejoicing refugee places their complete trust in the Lord. They run to Him as their strong tower, finding safety and peace amid life’s storms. A rejoicing refugee humbles themselves before God, acknowledging Him as the source of all strength, wisdom, and provision.
"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." (Psalm 46:1, NIV)
Rejoicing refugees do not rely on the wisdom of the world, which is filled with lies and deception. Instead, they cling to God’s Word and are led by the Spirit, even in times of difficulty. The psalmist declares:
"Blessed is the one who takes refuge in him." (Psalm 34:8, NIV)
This trust in God’s provision and protection allows believers to remain steadfast, joyful, and victorious despite trials. They focus on God’s eternal promises rather than earthly turmoil.
--- Avoiding the Pitfalls of Worldly Wisdom
The world’s ways often lead to destruction. Those who turn to the world for refuge or solutions end up idolizing its fleeting promises, which ultimately result in disappointment and despair. God warns against such betrayal:
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." (Romans 12:2, NIV)
True refuge is found in God alone. When we seek His guidance and protection, we align ourselves with His Kingdom and His will.
"The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him." (Nahum 1:7, NIV)
---Summary
The choice between being a bitter quitter or a rejoicing refugee lies in how we respond to God’s Word and Spirit. Bitter quitters allow unforgiveness, pride, and disobedience to lead them astray. Rejoicing refugees, however, find peace and joy by running to God as their refuge, trusting Him completely, and obeying His commands. The difference between these two paths is stark and eternal.
--- Conclusion
God calls His people to be rejoicing refugees who trust in Him rather than bitter quitters who turn away. His desire is for us to experience the peace, joy, and victory that come from abiding in His presence. As citizens of His Kingdom, we are not to seek the world’s wisdom but to rely solely on Him.
---Final Word of Encouragement
Remember that the Lord is your refuge and strength. He is a strong tower you can run to in every season of life. Choose today to be a rejoicing refugee, living in the freedom, peace, and abundance that come from trusting in Him.
"The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge." (Psalm 18:2, NIV)
