The NBA offseason continues to take many wild turns with surprising developments every week. The latest story revolves around Cleveland’s point guard, Kyrie Irving, and his desire to be traded.

This came as a shock to many, considering the Cavs are a championship contender and have the best player in the world on their roster.

Apparently, however, that’s the reason Irving wants to be traded. He no longer wants to be in the shadow of LeBron James. Instead, he wants to be in the spotlight by leading his own team and keeping the ball in his hands on the court.

A contentious split up appears to be on the horizon, as LeBron is reportedly disappointed by the reasons for Kyrie’s trade request. It’s even been suggested that LeBron would be tempted to fight him if they came face to face.

Many might think Kyrie is being selfish, spoiled, power hungry, and attention seeking. At the same time, stories reveal that playing with LeBron’s high demands, control, and leadership style is difficult. On both sides, there is clearly pride, ego, and selfish ambition at the core of this breakup.

Throughout the history of sports, there have been plenty of similar situations involving players, coaches, and owners wanting their own way and ultimately separating from each other.

But let’s face it, athletes aren’t much different than we are when it comes to selfishness and pride. They may be chasing different things, but at the heart of the matter is a desire for many of us to be the focal point – to have power, control, and recognition.

Whether we are battling other people or sometimes even God, we can desire the spotlight and want things to go our way. We don’t want to share or let others get in the way of our own desires and happiness.

However, as committed followers of Jesus, we must surrender and give up the power and control, and no longer operate with that kind of mentality. Our ultimate example should be found in Jesus who served others, loved people, and paid the ultimate sacrifice while living on this earth.

Unfortunately, the idea of serving, sacrificing, and putting others’ interests ahead of our own seem to get lost in today’s world.

Paul encourages us in Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV), “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

And Romans 12:10 (ESV) tells us to “Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.”

Today, let’s consider what it means to be a team player in life…to actually care about others and represent humility in the way we live. Instead of chasing the spotlight, let’s allow God’s goodness and love to shine through us as we serve others.

I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I admit it’s easy for me to get caught up in myself and my own selfish desires. I pray I would recognize the areas of my life that are lacking humility, and ask that You would empower me to count others more significant than myself. Thank you, Jesus, for being my example. In your name, I pray, Amen.