Q: How do you let go of bitterness? God teaches us not to be bitter and anger and learn to forgive our enemies. How are we suppose to do this if these are people who are acting very mean to us (such as spreading gossip, etc.)? Are we suppose to love them despite them doing so?

A: In the Book of Ephesians, it says this:

30And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. - Ephesians 4:30-32

This passage tells us that indeed, bitterness is not something that we should have in our lives and the Apostle Paul (who writes the Book of Ephesians) tells us to get rid of it by being kind and compassionate to one another, forgive each other just as Christ forgave us. 

One would focus on the fact that in order to get rid of bitterness, we have to be kind and compassionate to one another, but the main message of this passage is not that, but is the last part - just as Christ forgave us. 

You see, we do not have the capabilities to get rid of the bitterness we have.  If we consider bitterness a sin (amongst the other things that Paul tells us to get rid of), than we have to know that we unable to get rid of sin without the forgiving power of Jesus Christ.  Thus, there is no way that we can get rid of the bitterness we have on our own, but it is only through the power and revelation of Christ's forgiveness.

Therefore, to answer your question, you must rely on Christ and allow Him to work through your heart and change the way that you feel.  I understand that may be easier said than done as we always want something more tangible and we want to see results, but ultimately, if we remember that it is Christ who forgives even the worst of our sins, we can remember to extend that grace to others also. 

[answered by Pastor KJT]