The Warriors' Steph Curry has already had an incredible NBA career and a remarkable rise to stardom. He burst onto the scene when he led Davidson's improbable run during the NCAA tournament. Since then, Curry has won an NBA Championship, two MVPs (one was unanimous), has the number one selling jersey, and is thought to be one of the most likable athletes in sports.
Unfortunately, as much as fans and media love him, there are rumors circling around the NBA world that other star players don't share this sentiment.Marcus Thompson recently wrote a book about Steph Curry, and during an interview, revealed his understanding that guys like LeBron, Westbrook, and Chris Paul are resentful of Curry. It's unlikely those guys would fully admit that, or talk about it openly, but the perception is worth exploring. Are the reasons for resenting Curry because he's so liked...has big endorsement deals...has had individual and team success...lured Kevin Durant to join him...has a great family...and his dad played in the NBA? Fans embrace all of those aspects of his story, but it's understandable that resentment would come from his competitors. With the playoffs about to begin, the intensity of the rivalries between the Warriors and everyone else will continue to increase.
The dictionary definition of resentment is "a feeling of deep and bitter anger and ill-will." We must be aware of how this plays out in our own lives, so that major harm in our relationships and to ourselves are not the result.
There may be reasons for building up resentment - someone else is having success and we aren't, or we feel like we deserve something we aren't receiving, or we may even resent God for not delivering on what we think He should.
But by recognizing these attitudes aren't helping us, and negatively affecting our heart toward God and others, we can rise above the resentment. By focusing our feelings on gratefulness instead, we can prevent bitterness from stealing our joy and love for others.
The Bible commands us in Hebrews 12:14-15 (NLT) to "Work at living in peace with everyone, and work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord. Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God. Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many."
Resentment is poisonous and can infiltrate many areas of our lives. As followers of Jesus, let’s be reminded of His grace and the work He’s doing in us, so we don't get caught up in worrying about someone else’s journey...and live freely at peace with others. I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I confess that sometimes I allow resentment to build up and rob me of joy and peace. I pray that You would replace it with love and a deeper understanding of Your grace. I thank you for the work You are doing in my life, and I pray I would focus on what You’ve called me to do...instead of worrying about someone else. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
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