Good morning! Today we are in James chapter four. The last few days I have been drawn to read this chapter over and over. Something was nagging me about it. I knew there was something I needed to learn from it. Oh, I learned plenty, but I had this feeling that God wanted me to really take it deep into my own heart and apply it truthfully, completely…so I did. I prayed much over this chapter. And God, in HIs usual style, answered my prayer:)
Know what He showed me? That everything I read in James’ letter to Christians are warnings. James is much like a safety monitor for the dangers of sin. He is also much like a teacher that asks his listeners questions, to check their comprehension. (He was a pastor in Jerusalem) So, to apply what the Lord inspired him to write, to my own needy soul, I asked myself the questions James asked…
“Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members? Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Or do you think the scripture says in vain, “The Spirit who dwells in us yearns jealously”? Who are you to judge another? and, (whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow.)For what is your life?” James 4:1,4,5, 12 and 14 NKJV
Wow. I began to see a pattern! James was warning us that SELF can cause problems, barriers if you will, in our Christian walk.
Fights, arguments, come from wanting OURSELVES to be right.
Friendship with the world means putting SELF first.
We often consider what SELF wants before we consider what God wants.
We judge others as a way of SELF-promotion.
We plan our days OURSELVES, according to what SELF wants.
I never realized before how much I do, how many decisions I make on my own, that I should ask God about first. In addition, I may need to add OTHERS’ wants and needs into my day. Don’t you love how the Word of God is so pure and wise that it cuts to our hearts? Our question each day and decision can be…”Ok, what is in this for me?” or better yet…” God, what is in this day for Your glory? How can I serve others and You today?”
Dear God,
You know best of all how imperfect I am, so thank You for giving me Your truth and light to navigate this world. Until You call me home, please keep that light on and I will do my best to follow it. Forgive me for being selfish at times. It is so easy to be that way because our world is selfish. Make me different, Lord. Make me fully Your servant. I love You so much!! Amen
May you all have a great day in the Lord! Love you!
Christina
Glory in the Morning 