Resentment
Scripture:
James 3:9-11
With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring?
Reflection:
Today I choose to fast from the sin of resentment.
Resentment is the wood that keeps the fire of wrath going. When we remain indignant at unfair treatment or hold onto a grudge, we are allowing resentment to remain active and feed anger and wrath. Given time, anger can subside on its own, but resentment refuses to allow this to take place.
Instead, resentment dwells on injustice and unfairness. Sometimes that injustice is real, other times it’s simply perceived. In either case, resentment harms us just as much as it does the other person. As St. Augustine said, “resentment is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die”. And while the antidote to resentment is simple - forgiveness - it’s not always easy to follow through.
Questions for Personal Reflection:
Whom do I resent or hold a grudge against?
In what ways has resentment been harming me?
Prayer:
Share your anger and resentment with God. Tell God about the injustices you have faced which fuel your anger. Pray for those who have wronged you. Ask God to help you learn to forgive those who have wronged you and for wisdom to know how to let go of any grudges you are holding.
These devotions have been adapted from “Lenten Healing: 40 Days to Set You Free from Sin” by Ken Kniepmann.
