Begin with 2 minutes of stillness and silence before God.
I have come to the conclusion that I don’t even really like James. He is meddlesome. I have never even met him, and he had the nerve to write an entire book about me. I have an old Bible and occasionally I will run into a page or two missing. James 4 is one of those pages. I would like to think it just fell out, but like my friend Chris Canoy is guilty of, I probably just tore it out one day when it just felt like the thing to do. Enough of that, come join me in the woodshed.
At the start of chapter 4, James reminds us to check our motives when praying. To make sure we are not just praying to increase our chances at things that please us. He reminds us that these “pleasures” are worldly, and the world is not only not friendly to God but is hostile. Strong word hostile. We see it a lot in scripture. The definition paints the picture of an enemy that is openly opposed and does everything to resist. Sound like someone you know? The evil one that rules this world? I was struggling one time, feeling like my prayers were not being answered. I did a study on things that could hinder my prayer. This was one of the hindrances I found. I had to make my way to the realization that God knows exactly what I need. He is an awesome giver of good things. I just thank Him each day that every good thing in my life is a gift from Him and know that He is not gift-impaired. And His gifts never arrive late, always fit, are much better than the competitor’s product, certainly last longer, and leave no stain.
James then gives us some advice that sounds so simple. In verse 7 he says, “Resist the devil and he will flee from you”. Wow, that sounds way too easy. Just say “No” and he will run off. In the words of my favorite Game Day guy, Lee Corso, “Not so fast my friend”. If you notice, the first part of the verse says, “Submit therefore to God.” Therein lies the solution. Don’t ever think you are going to white knuckle yourself out of sin. You, nor I, are not that good. Satan preys on lone sheep. Satan and his evil cronies flee at the name of Jesus. Revelation 12:11 says, “We overcome him by the Blood of the Lamb (already done) and the word of our testimony”. So just remind Satan that wherever he is trying to take you - you don’t live there anymore. New creation, new address. Quote of few verses to him, he will recognize whose you are, and the scripture says “Flee”. I like that word.
James takes a couple more jabs at me but ends with verse 17. I personally think 16 verses was more than enough; nice even number. But no, he must add, “the one who knows the right thing to do, and does not do it, it is sin”. That is not fair. I have a hard enough time just trying not to do the bad stuff. I believe this is where the Holy Spirit really shines. The Holy Spirit is constantly speaking to us about the needs of those around us. Spiritual needs, physical needs, a nice word, some encouragement, Godly direction, help. This is not my strongest suit. God is patiently working on it. So glad we serve a patient God.
Take 2 minutes to reflect in silence:
Reflection:
- Are you praying for something that may not reflect a pure motive?
- What “thing” has the Holy Spirit laid on your heart recently that you have yet to do?
Family Devo: James 4
By: Jana Whittington
Today, let's talk about a chapter from the Bible, James 4. In this chapter, James is teaching us some important lessons about our behavior and how to live in a way that pleases God. Let’s read verses 1-10 before we jump in.
He tells us that sometimes we might have conflicts with others, and it's essential to figure out why and how we can resolve them. Have you ever had an argument or fight with a friend or sibling? James says that quarrels and fights happen when we want something so badly that we're willing to do anything to get it, even if it means hurting others. He reminds us that instead of fighting, we should pray to God and ask Him for what we need. When we ask with the right heart, God listens and helps us.
James also talks about humility. What does it mean to be humble or to show humility? Humility means not thinking too highly of ourselves and filling our minds and hearts with pride. Imagine if you have a race with your friends, and you win. Instead of saying, I'm the fastest! Being humble means saying, I did my best, and I'm glad we had fun together. It's about being kind and not showing off. The word “humble” appears all throughout the Bible. It is clear that God values a humble heart and calls His followers to pursue a life of humility. Instead of boasting or bragging about what we can do, we should be humble and thankful to God for everything we have. When we are humble, we make room for God's grace and kindness in our lives. The humble look to Him for daily strength. The best plans are those that are made by talking with the Lord of the universe, for He knows the beginning from the end. He also knows what is truly best for us.
James tells us in verse 8, “Come near to God and He will come near to you.” This means that when we pray, read the Bible, and spend time with God, we become closer to Him. And the closer we are to God, the more His love and guidance will be a part of our lives. So, remember, choose humility, avoid quarrels, and draw close to God. That's how we can live in a way that pleases Him!
Prayer: Our Father in Heaven, we thank You for the wisdom You have given to James and that he has passed on to us. Please give us increasing wisdom to understand more of Your truth. Give us the strength to control our desires and attitudes and grant us the courage to do what is right. In Jesus' name, Amen.