James 4:1-10
In a number of combat or wrestling type sports there is a universal term and signal for submission called a “tap out.” This submission is the result of one opponent being placed in a position that chokes them or strains an arm or leg joint. The one under the control of their opponent taps the other person or the floor several times with their hand before further injury is sustained. This tap signals to the referee that they have given up and are submitting the victory to their opponent. As we move into James 4 the emphasis is now on submission to God and not our worldly selfish ways. Our worldly way of thinking tells us to insist on our own way. However, that form of thinking and operation is selfish and lacks faith in God. James opens this chapter by asking his audience about the source of their conflicts (1). He points out that conflict is the result of worldly personal and selfish desires (2-3). Worldliness is a love for the power, possessions, and positions of this world over and above a love for God. James says that a love for the things of the world and a love for God can’t exist together. In saying this he challenges the spiritual unfaithfulness of his audience (4). Thankfully, he does not leave his readers without hope. In verses 7-10 James gives the solution to this conflict. He notes that the selfish condition of worldliness finds its cure only in the grace offered through Jesus Christ and humbly submitting to His authority. Today, our situation is not all that different. It is easy to allow the self-centered attitudes of our world to influence our thoughts and action. We need faith to let God be the authority in our life and the humility to submit. That is what you call a spiritual tap out.
For more see JAMES
In a number of combat or wrestling type sports there is a universal term and signal for submission called a “tap out.” This submission is the result of one opponent being placed in a position that chokes them or strains an arm or leg joint. The one under the control of their opponent taps the other person or the floor several times with their hand before further injury is sustained. This tap signals to the referee that they have given up and are submitting the victory to their opponent. As we move into James 4 the emphasis is now on submission to God and not our worldly selfish ways. Our worldly way of thinking tells us to insist on our own way. However, that form of thinking and operation is selfish and lacks faith in God. James opens this chapter by asking his audience about the source of their conflicts (1). He points out that conflict is the result of worldly personal and selfish desires (2-3). Worldliness is a love for the power, possessions, and positions of this world over and above a love for God. James says that a love for the things of the world and a love for God can’t exist together. In saying this he challenges the spiritual unfaithfulness of his audience (4). Thankfully, he does not leave his readers without hope. In verses 7-10 James gives the solution to this conflict. He notes that the selfish condition of worldliness finds its cure only in the grace offered through Jesus Christ and humbly submitting to His authority. Today, our situation is not all that different. It is easy to allow the self-centered attitudes of our world to influence our thoughts and action. We need faith to let God be the authority in our life and the humility to submit. That is what you call a spiritual tap out.
For more see JAMES
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