James + Jude | Reading Plan + Study QuestionsНамуна

JAMES 4

ALIGN WITH GOD’S WILL INSTEAD OF THE WAYS OF THE WORLD

James acknowledges the internal wrestling that can occur between personal desires and the pursuit of righteousness. James warns that friendship or comfort with the ways of the world is often in opposition to God’s desires. James reminds believers that God opposes the proud and shows grace to the humble.

Encouraging closeness with God, James urges believers to draw near to God and resist the temptations of sin. Because God is the only righteous lawgiver and judge, believers should not judge one another.

James emphasizes the fleeting nature of life, trusting God as the giver and sustainer of life, but knowing nothing is guaranteed. Using similar language to the book of Ecclesiastes, James describes life as a mist that appears for a short time and vanishes. James teaches that submitting to God’s will is more valuable than boasting in one’s own plans or accomplishments.

STUDY QUESTIONS

What does it mean that friendship with the world is enmity with God (James 4:4)?

Read James 4:7-8. How does nearness to God combat the enemy?

How does James 4:13-17 encourage trusting in God’s timing over your own?