Worldliness has a degenerative effect on the life of Christian. A preoccupation with the pleasures of this world at the expense of our spiritual growth stifles kingdom fruitfulness in our lives (Mt 13:22). James’ instructive labors in the preceding verses of this chapter (4) teaches us to be on guard against divided affections and earthly desires which fuels a “heaven now” mindset. He continues in his letter by offering remedies to overcome a self-centered lifestyle that is rooted in human pride. His prescription is clear: flee self and seek God. According to James, here are some helpful truths that will serve as an aid and guide towards God-centered living.
Remedy #1 – Submit to God. Our way of life should be oriented to the will of God as described and prescribed in the Holy Scriptures. James exhorts us to divest ourselves of human pride, but instead, “Submit yourselves therefore to God…” (v7). Remember, God opposes the prideful, but gives grace to those who humble themselves before him. The text usage of the English word “submit”, is transliterated from the Greek to “hupotassō” (ὑποτάσσω), which means to be under obedience or in subjection to. Speaking plainly, when we are submitted under the authority of God we can obey his commands and endure temptations of Satan. How is this possible? Obedience has an extinguishing and repelling effect on him, his methods and devices he labors tirelessly to ensnare us with, thus James, “…Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” We can only withstand him by the Word of God (e.g., Lk 4:1-13). We are only victorious over him and worldliness when we are submitted to God.
Remedy #2 – Seek God. Obedience to God is impossible without drawing near into his presence. Hebrews encourages us with a promise, “And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who diligently seek him” (Heb 11:6). Likewise, James’ instructions harmonize with this truth, “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you…” (v8). When we seek God (his will and righteousness), we are rewarded in his presence with his love and grace. Both are a source of strength to live for him in spite of the trials, tribulations, and temptations we face.
We are all sinners and fall short of the glory of God from the pulpit to the pews. Seeking our Holy God is more fruitful when we approach him in humility and heart that genuinely desires to repent. James underlines our natural inclination to seek God with divided affections (i.e., attempting to love and serve both God and the world), “…Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded” (v8). True repentance is characterized by godly sorrow that accompanies it. We grieve because of our sins we have committed against God and our fellow man. One the marks of the saved person is the indwelling of the Spirit of God which brings forth such conviction. Unlike our lives before Christ where we were pleased with our human righteousness, took joy in iniquities and pursued pleasure in sin…….we can no longer abide with such disposition before God as his child (1 Pt 1:14-16). James exhorts, “Be wretched and mourn and weep. Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom” (v9). When we approach God in humility with godly sorrow (cf., 2 Cor 7:9-10) it has a life-giving, transformative effect on our souls. He draws us out of the quicksand of self, and places our feet firmly on the rock of our salvation, Jesus Christ. Such posture before God guards us (like spiritual armor) against Satan and in-dwelling sin that covets us and greatly desires to lead us away from our Good Father. Trust Him today and seek refuge from worldliness. Come boldly to his throne of grace where true pleasures are forevermore. Amen!
Blessings,
Dr. Jason S. Price, Th.D.
www.springoflivingwaters.com