James 4:1, “What is the source of wars and fights among you? Don’t they come from the cravings that are at war within you? “
In James 4:1-12, James is addressing our attitude, is it one of Selfish pride or humility? Specifically, in verse 1, he is talking about church relationships and attitudes among the members. “Wars and fights” indicate physical conflict among members and factions within the congregation. The source of conflict was the cravings at war within you. “Cravings” refers to the pleasures of life, the pursuit of which leads to conflicts.
In the past several months, we have joined another church in our area after leaving our previous church because of hurt and neglect. As we are getting to know people and answer the question about the church, I have been describing us as church nomads for the past four years. What I am finding is that our story is not unusual. People our age have stepped away from the church for a season and a variety of reasons.
How to be part of the solution
My husband and I have served in church together for almost four decades. Our recent experience has taken us some time to process and heal. And that is ok if that is where you find yourself. But, as we look at James 4:1, our churches are filled with people that are prideful and selfish, but they are also filled with humble spirits. As we begin our new church experience, we want to be a humble spirit and to behave in a way that is pleasing to The Lord. Being part of the solution means to lay down our cravings for the things of the world and pursue peace and humility.
Dear Lord, help me to be humble today. Let my cravings, be more of you and less of my selfish desires. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
The Holy Bible: Holman Christian standard version. (2009). (Jas 4:1). Nashville: Holman Bible Publishers.
Well said and affirming. A “nomad” season can have many blessings.
Yes, it can. We just need to be looking for the blessings.