Steph Curry has won back-to-back NBA MVP awards, has led the Warriors to an NBA Championship, and continues to be one of the most well-liked athletes in sports.

Growing up with a dad in the NBA, Curry now has his own multiple endorsement deals and is in the final year of a four-year $44 million dollar contract.

From the average fan’s perspective, we can’t imagine how much money $44 million truly is, and at first glance, it’s difficult to think that anyone making that kind of money would be “underpaid.” We know when discussing money in sports, it’s a completely different frame of reference.

With that in mind, it’s interesting to think that Curry is the fourth highest-paid player on the Golden State Warriors. Not only does the reigning MVP make less money than three of his teammates, but 73 players across the NBA make more than he does.

When the topic was recently brought up in an interview, Curry responded this way: “One thing my pops always told me is you never count another man’s money. It’s what you’ve got and how you take care of it. And if I’m complaining about $44 million over four years, then I’ve got other issues in my life.”

Although Curry makes more money than most of us can comprehend, his approach to money is encouraging. As we consider our own financial situations, how many of us find reasons to complain about how much we make? How much time do we spend thinking we should make more than the next guy because we’re more “valuable” than he is?

Whether it’s $44 million or $44 hundred, the heart behind our view and stewardship of money is what’s truly important. If we constantly have a lack of contentment and want to always have more…and no amount is ever enough…then maybe we do have “other issues” to address.

The truth is, as followers of Jesus we should work hard and be thankful for every blessing we’re given. God is the ultimate provider, and we need to hold what He’s given us with an open hand.

When we fill our lives with complaining, discontentment, worry, and dissatisfaction because of our salary (or anything else for that matter), we aren’t embracing the peace that comes from resting in God’s goodness and love. We think we always deserve more instead of being truly grateful for what we have.

As we do what we can this year to work hard, make money, and use it for God’s glory, let’s avoid complaining and replace it with thankfulness. To help us do that, let’s hang on to these two verses:

Philippians 2:14 (NLT): “Do everything without complaining and arguing.“

I Thessalonians 5:18 (ESV), “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, forgive me for complaining so much and taking for granted all the wonderful blessings You’ve given me. I pray I would be a good steward while bringing you Glory with everything I have. If you choose to give me more, help me to remain humble. If I never receive more, help me to remain content. Please fill me with thankfulness. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.