The NBA’s popularity and reputation have gone through cycles over the years, with the Michael Jordan era being phenomenal for the game. But once Jordan left, the league struggled with image issues and negativity surrounding the sport.

In recent seasons, LeBron James and the new group of superstars have brought the NBA back into the spotlight. I’m a huge fan, so thankfully, this has led to positive discussions and greater interest in the sport.

However, lately there has been crazy conflict taking place during (and after) games, and I’m concerned the league is heading in the wrong direction. Too many players are losing their cool over issues with the refs and opponents…and too many scuffles and fights are taking place.

In the last few weeks, we’ve seen players punching each other, going after each other in the locker room, and getting into altercations that stop play.

I’m all for rivalries and intensity, but when it escalates to such outrageous levels, it’s not a good look for the sport or for the individuals involved. It’s a wonderufl league with great players and it’s unfortunate these situations are shifting the focus negatively.

Of course, fringe onlookers will use this as an excuse to criticize the NBA and stop watching. That’s certainly understandable, but I hope the league makes some positive changes and shows players how unacceptable their behavior really is.

The Bible tells us in Proverbs 29:11 (AMP), “A [shortsighted] fool always loses his temper and displays his anger, but a wise man [uses self-control and] holds it back.”

Before we jump all over these athletes by pointing our judgmental fingers, let’s take a look at our own lives and consider the tension that might be brewing within us.

How are we handling our own temper? Do we find ourselves getting into heated arguments or fights that uncontrollably escalate?

Proverbs 29:22 (AMP) says, “An angry man stirs up strife, and a hot-tempered and undisciplined man commits many transgressions.”

We need to look in the mirror to see how we respond to people who offend us or bother us or attack us in some way. When conflicts arise with our spouses, co-workers, strangers, and kids, do we have a handle on our tone and the type of words we use? Do we understand what needs to be done before the fighting gets out of hand?

Proverbs 17:14 (AMP) gives us great truth for dealing with these types of situations: “The beginning of strife is like letting out water [as from a small break in a dam; first it trickles and then it gushes]; Therefore abandon the quarrel before it breaks out and tempers explode.”

As followers of Jesus, let’s remember to ask God to give us wisdom when faced with conflict. Let’s trust His spirit to guide us into resolution and unity.

We can be assured that He always provides a way out and gives us the power we need to overcome our anger. I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, please help me act in obedience when conflict arises in my life. I pray I wouldn’t try to resist within my own strength, but instead depend on You. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.