ADULLAM – a 7-Day Devotional for MenSample

Overcoming Resentment – Forgiveness is for Warriors

Betrayal stings. Losing a job, being minimized, or abandoned by those we trusted cuts deep. It’s okay to feel hurt—David did. Joseph did. Even Jesus, in His humanity, felt the weight of rejection. But what separates a man after God’s own heart from a man consumed by bitterness is what he does with that pain.

David had every reason to resent Saul, yet he refused to take vengeance, declaring, “The LORD will repay me according to my righteousness” (1 Sam. 26:23). Joseph, betrayed by his own brothers, looked them in the eye and said, “You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good” (Gen. 50:20). Jesus, falsely accused and nailed to a cross, prayed, “Father, forgive them” (Luke 23:34).

Resentment feels justified, but it will destroy you. It takes root in the heart, grows into bitterness, and blinds you to God’s grace. Scripture warns, “See to it that no root of bitterness springs up and causes trouble” (Heb. 12:15).

Bro, let it go. God is your defender. Justice belongs to Him, not you. Surrender your pain to the One who heals, and don’t let resentment steal what God is building in you.

Challenge: Stop holding onto grudges. Christ forgave you—now walk in that grace toward others.

Reflection: Who have you refused to forgive, and what is that resentment costing you spiritually?