Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners. Purify your hearts, you double-minded. James 4:8 WEB
James begins chapter four of his epistle with an appeal to submit to God rather than follow worldly ambitions. He rhetorically questions the cause of quarrels between believers. James reveals the source of our conflicts as selfish desire and covetousness. He continues, stating that we lack the things we want because we do not ask God or that when we do ask God, we ask with misguided intentions to gain pleasure for ourselves.
But how should we respond when we realize that our troubles stem from our proud, self serving dispositions? James encourages his readers to repent from worldly attitudes and self satisfaction reminding his readers that God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. He writes in James 4:7, “Be subject therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. WEB”
Humble Yourselves
The brother of Jesus continues with his words from James 4:8. He encourages the faithful to give up our double mindedness and purify our hearts. James instructs us to draw near to God, promising that God will draw near to us in return. He writes in James 4:10, “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he will exalt you.WEB”
James’ call to “cleanse your hands” is a direct appeal to repentance from sin. In double mindedness, we sometimes attempt to serve both God and self. But this attitude causes conflict within ourselves and with other people leaving us open to sin and strife. James teaches us to draw near to God, give up our selfishness and live obedient lives of service to the Lord.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for your forgiveness and grace. Forgive me for my selfish pride. I humble myself before you and choose to live according to your will. Help me to love and live a life of service in obedience to your word. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: The Sabbath
