The NBA is back in action and we’ve already seen tight finishes and marquee matchups. One of the most intriguing and exciting players in the league to watch is rookie Zion Williamson. He’s had a shortened first year but has shown just how electric and impactful his game is. The NBA included his team (the Pelicans) in the bubble for the restart as they attempt to make the playoffs. However, they have lost their first two games and Zion has only played a total of 29 minutes. He’s shot 9 of 15 from the floor, but it’s challenging to get into a rhythm since he’s only out there for short periods of time. The Pelicans are being very cautious with their young superstar and have limited his playing time by putting “burst restrictions” on him. They are trying to ease him back in after the long lay-off and because he missed practice time in the bubble due to family circumstances. Coaches are trying to do what’s best, but someone like Zion wants to be out on the court to help his teammates and it’s hard for him to be held back. He’s attempting to stay positive and not get frustrated, but he clearly isn’t his joyful self. Zion said, "It's still fun but I guess, like you said, it's not to that full extent as y'all are used to seeing…” Even though it’s only been two games, as we witness Zion being limited and restricted and not completely thriving, I want us to ask these questions for ourselves today: “Is anything or anyone holding me back from living life to its fullest?” "What is limiting or restricting me from following Jesus with passion and consistency?" "Am I allowing someone or something to hold me back from thriving, experiencing freedom, and maximizing my abilities?" "Am I being held back because of fear and worry?" If so, Proverbs 29:25 (AMP) gives us this challenge: “The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever trusts in and puts his confidence in the Lord will be exalted and safe.” What about shame, bitterness, envy, and regret? Has someone hurt us in the past and does that pain continue to hold us back? If we want to move forward, we are encouraged in Ephesians 4:31-32 (ESV) to “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” Are we getting in our own way as selfishness and pride put us on “burst restrictions”? Proverbs 29:23 (ESV) tells us, “One’s pride will bring him low, but he who is lowly in spirit will obtain honor.” Also, let's get off the bench and into the action...and stop missing out on joy and peace because wrong mindsets, unrealistic expectations, laziness, and procrastination are holding us back. Hebrews 12:1-2 says, “... let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus…” Thankfully, Jesus offers us hope and freedom and provides us the power and strength to break these types of chains in our lives. His grace and forgiveness allow us to move on from whatever holds us back as we rely on His Spirit working in us. Today, let’s surrender to Him and not let anything or anyone prevent us from fully experiencing all that He has for us. I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that! PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I confess that there are things in my life holding me back from really thriving. I pray You would free me from any pride, shame, or fear. I trust in Your power through Jesus to break any chains. In His name, I pray, Amen. Discussion Questions for PACKS:
What is something that holds you back from really thriving?
What is something that used to hold you back but you have now found freedom?
How can we help you let go of something that is preventing you from moving forward in life?
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