We read in James 4 about the root of quarrels and fights among people (v. 1). It is not "issues” or "circumstances,” but it is the "passions” inside. In other words, it’s people’s own lusts and desires. The reason we fight and cause problems is because of ourselves. As it states in v. 2, we see something and we want it so we murder or fight to get it. We basically do whatever we have to in order to get what we want. People have desires and basically throw a “temper tantrum” to get what they want. He is talking about people in the church - me, me, me, I, I, I. It’s all about my wants, my desires, what I think is right and good and should be done. What is missing here? Any sense of humility. This is why it says “God opposes the proud and gives grace to the humble” (v. 6). Again in v. 10 he says, "Humble yourselves before the Lord and He will exalt you.” In our attitudes about church, people, ministry, or whatever, there needs to be humility. We need to focus on our own attitudes, our own hearts. When we focus on ourselves, meaning, our own need for grace and humility, we see we have plenty to worry about and all but eliminate our desire to worry about others. Are you seeking to humble yourself before a holy God? A good test is, are you constantly critical of others? Is there peace where you go? Let us be a humble people, before a Holy God! May the Lord be with you today!
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