think again

We often want to think of God as just the lover and the encourager. He is that and more!

Layers of Prayers – oil and coldwax with prayers

He’s also straight to the point on what is not good. You might be like me that sometimes you don’t really want to dig into the confrontational areas as you read or study.

Lately I do not stray from them but process right away. I do want to be refined. I do want to be closer and closer to His heart for me, for others, and for this world. A section that really spoke to me today….

Where do you think all these appalling wars and quarrels come from? Do you think they just happen? Think again. They come about because you want your own way, and fight for it deep inside yourselves. You lust for what you don’t have and are willing to kill to get it. You want what isn’t yours and will risk violence to get your hands on it.
You wouldn’t think of just asking God for it, would you? And why not? Because you know you’d be asking for what you have no right to. You’re spoiled children, each wanting your own way.
You’re cheating on God. If all you want is your own way, flirting with the world every chance you get, you end up enemies of God and his way. And do you suppose God doesn’t care? The proverb has it that “he’s a fiercely jealous lover.” And what he gives in love is far better than anything else you’ll find. It’s common knowledge that “God goes against the willful proud; God gives grace to the willing humble.”
So let God work his will in you. Yell a loud no to the Devil and watch him make himself scarce. Say a quiet yes to God and he’ll be there in no time. Quit dabbling in sin. Purify your inner life. Quit playing the field. Hit bottom, and cry your eyes out. The fun and games are over. Get serious, really serious. Get down on your knees before the Master; it’s the only way you’ll get on your feet.
Don’t bad-mouth each other, friends. It’s God’s Word, his Message, his Royal Rule, that takes a beating in that kind of talk. You’re supposed to be honoring the Message, not writing graffiti all over it. God is in charge of deciding human destiny. Who do you think you are to meddle in the destiny of others?
James 4:1-12 MSG

Father, I repent for the ways and places I have wanted my own way and have focused on the things of the world more than on You. I don’t want to carry pride or belittle others so remove any of those thoughts or impulses. Help me to know the motives of my heart and adjust them right away to loving as You love. I want all that I do to glorify You Lord!