(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
James 4:2-3 You want what you don’t have, so you scheme and kill to get it. You are jealous of what others have, but you can’t get it, so you fight and wage war to take it away from them. Yet you don’t have what you want because you don’t ask God for it. And even when you ask, you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong—you want only what will give you pleasure.
Picture the following:
- A worship leader sings an amazing rendition of one of your favorite worship songs.
- A pastor gives a message that moves you to tears.
- A poet writes something that really helps you to understand the nature and character of God in a profound way.
Some may have these experiences and pray, God, please give me the ability to sing like that, teach like that, or write like that! James reminds us all that God may not answer this prayer if the one praying has poor motives. Instead, it’s best to recognize that God has a specific purpose for each of us. And we will experience peace & contentment by living out the purpose He has for us.
READING & PRAYERS:
JAMES 4:1-17 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: What is one area of your life in which the desire of your heart is to have what somebody else has? How may God be inviting you to let go of this desire and instead be content with what He has provided you?
REAL LIFE PRACTICE: As you pray today, spend an equal amount of time listening to God as you spend talking to God. Perhaps listen even longer. Consider making this a part of your daily practices so you can discern God’s voice more clearly.
Take a Step: Remember to continue utilizing the One Minute Pause app throughout the week. If possible, begin to explore and practice the 3, 5 or 10 minute pause to more deeply root yourself in Christ.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I acknowledge there are times when I feel like I am content, but then I feel a sudden need to buy something or pray for something I don’t have, believing the lie that if I would just have that one thing my life would be so much better. Continue to help me see that I need nothing more than Your love. May I rest in You alone. Amen.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence)
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