The Cure For Resentment
Categories: Church of Christ Bulletin ArticlesWe may readily agree with the statement that “all men are created equal.” But we don’t have to live long before discovering that life treats some people better than others. This is something we all must learn to accept without resentment.
Life’s inequities show up on many levels. Cancer ravages the body of a child, while a hard-drinking chain-smoker lives to a ripe old age. Some people enjoy good health, while many others don’t. Some have no physical disabilities, others have severe limitations. Some work hard and remain poor, while others are born to wealth or seem to get all the breaks.
When Jesus informed the apostle Peter that he was going to die as a martyr for his faith, Peter asked what would happen to his fellow disciple John. He seemed to think that it wouldn’t be fair if John didn’t die the same way. But Jesus told him that what would happen to John was not to be Peter’s concern “” that was God’s decision. Peter’s responsibility was simple: He was to follow Christ (John 21:18-25).
When looking at others makes us resent the unfairness of life, let’s change our focus. Let’s look to Jesus and follow Him (Hebrews 12:2; John 21:22). Life’s injustices here on earth last only a short period of time in contrast to that perfect setting that will be found in our eternal dwelling place.
Let’s remember that resentment comes from looking at others “” contentment comes from looking to God.