This teaching through James chapter 4 was recorded on 7th June 2020.
In this study pastor Barry underlines that this hard and direct message to our hearts is really summed up in the words “no compromise”!
James gives no room to those who would live a ‘nominal Christian life’. As far as James is concerned, if we are followers of Jesus Christ, we must live like Him! He tells us to resist the ‘devilish disposition within us’ and ‘flee from it’. In contrast, we are to draw near to God, just as a large ship would draw near the dock. As we draw near to the One who is unshakable, unmovable, always the same, we find He draws near to us. The closer we get to Him, the closer He gets to us.
James tells us that even if it seems painful to sever our connection with the world and its treasures, we must do it for the sake of our relationship with God. Our time on this earth is like a vapor that passes in an instant, so like Moses, we must say “teach me to number my days” (Psalm 90:12), and surrender our entire lives to Him.
But there is no loss in casting aside that which cannot prosper us for that which is eternal and will never disappoint us! Paul said: “For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace” (Romans 8:6)
May this study bless, encourage and challenge you to a deeper walk with Jesus Christ!
