Resentment

“‘Meanwhile, the older son was in the field. When he came near the house, he heard music and dancing. So he called one of the servants and asked him what was going on. “Your brother has come,” he replied, “and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.'” 
“‘The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and pleaded with him. But he answered his father, “Look! All these years I’ve been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends. But when this son of yours who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!'” Luke 15:25-30 (NIV)

Resentment is like acid in a relationship. It causes strife, discord, and animosity. Resentment has the capacity to keep you from experiencing meaningful relationships. The fruit of resentment is a heart full of bitterness.

The prodigal son received a loving reception from his gracious father. Yet his older brother did not exemplify the same kind of response. Instead, he exhibited a major case of resentment. The older brother was unwilling to see his brother through the eyes of his loving father. He was quick to judge and condemn. There was no room for an expression of mercy only a toxic display of bitterness and resentment.

Are there any relationships in your life that have caused you to grow bitter? Can you name a few individuals who have affected your life in a demeaning way? Where do you go from here?

Spend some time praying for people you have grown bitter towards. Acknowledge your struggle in prayer and ask God to release you from the bondage of bitterness and the rope of resentment. Surrender your hurt and disappointment to God and seek to reflect the father’s heart and not the older brother’s resentment.

Pursuing God,

Stephen Trammell
Pastor of Leadership and Pastoral Care