A major NBA trade took place between the two top teams in the Eastern Conference yesterday. Cleveland sent Kyrie Irving to the Celtics in exchange for Isaiah Thomas, Jae Crowder, Ante Zizic, and a 2018 first-round pick.

Kyrie was drafted by the Cavs with the first overall pick in 2011, and carried the team before LeBron returned to Cleveland. He then took a backseat to LeBron, but was still a key piece to their 2016 Championship win.

Although he hit clutch shots and had impressive performances during his time with the Cavs, Kyrie was ready for a change. Cleveland granted his wish to be traded, and now the Celtics and Cavs will both have a new-look roster this season.

The underlying element to the trade request and eventual trade, is the relationship between Kyrie and LeBron. Despite their on-court success, Kyrie was always living in the shadow of LeBron.

It was LeBron’s team and he was the veteran who knew how to win championships. Despite Kyrie’s talent, everyone followed LeBron’s lead and the spotlight was always focused on him.

Apparently, Kyrie had enough of all of this and their relationship eventually soured. He thinks he can succeed outside of the shadow of LeBron, but it might not be so easy.

He won’t be able to rely on the best player in the world, and handling his “own” team will most likely bring added pressure.

Not having to worry about certain aspects of the game, because LeBron’s dominance filled in the gaps, it will now fall on Kyrie’s shoulders with the Celtics.

Admittedly, being in the “shadow” of LeBron has been positive for other NBA players, so seeing how Kyrie’s life away from it will be interesting.

As we contemplate this intriguing NBA story, many of us can relate to trying to do life alone – instead of resting in the shadow of God. But when we acknowledge our great need for Him, He provides comfort, strength, and peace.

Psalm 91:1 (NLT) affirms that we don’t have to face challenges on our own, but can always rely on Him: “Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.”

Psalm 36:7 (ESV) declares, “How precious is Your steadfast love, O God! The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of Your wings.”

In Psalm 57:1 (ESV) David cries out, “Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me, for in You my soul takes refuge; in the shadow of Your wings I will take refuge, till the storms of destruction pass by.”

Today, let’s ask ourselves where we’re finding our refuge, peace, and rest. Instead of chasing our own pursuits and depending on our own strength, let’s make sure we are living in the shadow of the Almighty God.

I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing me to find comfort and rest in You. I know You love me and encourage me to find my refuge in You. I pray I wouldn’t look to other places for what only You can provide. My peace and joy is in the shadow of the cross. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.