In 2002, a reporter asked Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Curt Schilling if he was angry with Barry Bonds. Shilling admitted, “We had a falling out,” but added, “When I became a Christian back in 1997, I lost the ability to hate anybody.” Clearly, he had a changed heart! Holding grudges is common in many sports rivalries. NBA stars Magic Johnson and Isiah Thomas held grudges against one another because of their bitter rivalry between the Lakers and Pistons during the late 1980s. After 25 years of animosity, allegations, and retaliation, they finally rekindled their friendship. Johnson said, “Let me apologize to you if I hurt you—that we haven’t been together.” Thomas replied, “I’ll always be here for you.”

Genesis 33;35 – Reconciliation

God also changed Esau’s heart in Genesis 33:4, “But Esau ran to meet Jacob and embrace him; he threw his arms around his neck and kissed him. And they wept.” The Lord drastically changed Jacob, too! The reunion of Jacob and Esau is an excellent picture of reconciliation in the Bible. The grudges between the brothers were forgotten, and Jacob said, “I have seen your face, and it is like seeing God’s face” (33:10). The Lord had done a work in their lives to bring about the change.

“A brother offended is more unyielding than a strong city, and quarreling is like the bars of a castle.” (Proverbs 18:19). Jacob realized that he needed to renew his commitment to the Lord and not let fear control his behavior by scheming and trusting in his own resources. Genesis 35 describes his renewal of commitment and God’s covenant promises to him.

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete regularly strengthen their commitment to the Lord by claiming His promises, which shape their perspectives and actions in sports and life.

Bible Memory Verse – “And Yahweh was with Joseph, so he became a successful man. And he was in the house of his master, the Egyptian. Now his master saw that Yahweh was with him and how Yahweh caused all that he did to succeed in his hand.” Genesis 39:2-3 (LSB)