Dealing with resentment Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps . . . When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. —1 Peter 2:21–23
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esentment can arise when we feel that we’re not getting a good deal in life. But why do we often expect more from life—and from God?
The reality is, all of us struggle with personal motives, desires, and goals. We may want to achieve a lifelong dream, be recognised, or be treated in a certain way. Many of these motives are not wrong in themselves, but we may not even be aware of them until they are exposed and tested by the stress of caregiving. When the duty and burden of caring for others make it hard for us to achieve these personal desires and goals, a victim mindset can result. Victims blame other people for their plight and 40
feel that they deserve better. Such a mentality fuels resentment and can lead to a deep-seated bitterness that ultimately affects our faith and walk with God. How can you free yourself from this mentality? Learn to see your heart as God does. Our brokenness
was the starting place for the Holy Spirit to begin the work of transformation. Learn to see life from a new perspective—a biblical one. For example, Scripture teaches us to take responsibility for our lives and stop blaming God and others for family problems, bumpy friendships, and job hassles (see James 1:13–19).
Trust the Bible on what it says about you. Don’t hang
your identity on something as
