Cure for resentment

Jesus said to him, "If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you? You follow Me. – John 21:22

We 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 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, 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.

When looking at others makes you resent the unfairness of life, change your focus. Look to Jesus and follow Him. Life’s injustices are only for a little while. Perfect fairness will be ours to enjoy forever in heaven. – Herbert Vander Lugt

At times our path is rough and steep,

Our way is hard to see;

We ask God, "Why is life unfair?"

He answers, "Follow Me." – Dennis J. De Haan

Read: John 21:18-25

Resentment comes from looking at others; contentment comes from looking to God.