James reveals that people are inherently selfish. We want our way. Our sinful tendencies can be overcome only by the transforming nature of Christ’s humility. That’s why some churches resemble war zones where people fight, gossip, and posture for position in an effort to get their preferences met.
The wrong response leads to division.
A lady stopped me before worship explaining she had a sin to confess. She related that her preferences in worship style were not being carried out, so she had withheld her tithe in protest admitting, “I realize now that is sinful and selfish. I am sorry and I wanted you to know that I see how wrong that approach is.” Then she handed me a fistful of cash, stating, “I’m catching up my giving and wanted to give it you and say I’m sorry.”
It’s not wrong to have preferences, but when what we want to have interferes with God’s work for the church, it’s wrong. It becomes sin. True worship is surrendering our agendas to follow God’s direction. You can’t be full of God when you’re full of self.
The right response leads to honor.
Resist the devil. He operates on wounded pride whispering, “You don’t have to take this kind of stuff.” “Who do they think they are?” “You could do a better job than he.” “It’s just not fair.”
“Come near to God.” Grow closer to him. The best defense is a good offense. The more time you spend alone with God, the better you will get along with people.
Maybe today you need to write a letter seeking to reconcile with another Christian, a coworker, or an estranged friend. Ask forgiveness of God and others. “Purify your hearts.”
I remember the vespers devotion years ago when, as a child, I attended Whitewater Christian Camp in Vevay, Indiana. I remember going to the canteen to buy a Tiger Red creme soda and a Zero candy bar. I remember, as darkness moved in, how the pungent aroma of insect repellent began to permeate our vespers area. I remember sitting on wooden benches beside the lake, as guttural calls from bullfrogs filled the cool night air.
And I remember a devotion given that night by Joe McKay on the subject of JOY. He said, “If you want to have real JOY in your life, take the J and put Jesus first. Take the O and put Others second. Take the Y and put Yourself last.”
Years later, that’s still great advice. |L
Jeff Stone is the Senior Minister at Discover Christian Church in Dublin, Ohio. Jeff is serving as President for the 2009 North American Christian Convention.
