LeBron James recently sat down for a candid conversation with ESPN’s Rachel Nichols to discuss multiple topics, including his accomplishments and future aspirations.

Earlier this month, a story surfaced about a comment he made to a kid at a basketball camp. When asked what is his motivation now that he’s won a championship for Cleveland, LeBron said, “My motivation is this ghost I’m chasing. The ghost played in Chicago.”

Of course, LeBron’s comment created a media stir, since he was referring to Michael Jordan, so Nichols got him to expand on it further in her interview.

He responded, “I meant in the simple fact that that’s my personal inspiration. That’s what drives me…I’m chasing that greatness….how great that ghost was. It’s the same as anybody setting out goals and trying to reach them. That’s just my personal goal.”

Michael Jordan set the example for what it means to be the best basketball player in the world. His level of respect is astonishing, and his legendary status will undoubtedly affect many generations to come.

Players coming into the NBA still want to be as great as he was and win six championships as he did, so I understand that Jordan is the one LeBron looks to as his “personal inspiration.”

There is great value in having role models and mentors in our lives, as viewing their success helps us achieve our goals. However, we must recognize that they aren’t flawless and don’t have all the answers to the most important aspects of life.

That is one of the reasons why I’m thankful Jesus came to earth. He provides the ultimate example of how to live. Although we can never live the perfect life He did, He showed us the way. Now we’re empowered through the work of the Holy Spirit to follow after Him each day.

 The Bible says in Ephesians 5:1-2 (ESV), Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”

 1 John 2:5-6 (NLT) explains, “But those who obey God’s Word truly show how completely they love Him. That is how we know we are living in Him. Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did.”

 This life is very hard at times, but the good news is we have an example and a Savior whose greatness is worth chasing. I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for sending Jesus to save me and to provide an example for how to truly live. I know life with You is truly satisfying, and I pray that I will live as Jesus did. Help me to love You and imitate You, and while I know I’ll fall short, I rest in Your grace. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.