James – Part 4: Drawing Close to God
James 4:1-10
“And he gives grace generously. As the Scriptures say, ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’” James 4:6 (p.932)
(Jesus) “…For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Luke 18:14 (p.800)
- “Come Close To God And He Will Come Close To You.” James 4:8 (p.932)
- Submit to God.
“So humble yourselves before God.” James 4:7a (p.932)
ὑποτάσσω (hypotassō): obey, be obedient, bring under control, put in subjection.
“He went on a little farther and bowed with his face to the ground, praying, ‘My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.’” Matthew 26:39 (p.757)
“So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor.” 1 Peter 5:6 (p.937)
- Resist the devil.
“Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7a (p.932)
“Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith…” 1 Peter 5:8–9 (p.937)
- Respond to all God has done.
“Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world.” James 4:8 (p.932)
“Anyone who continues to live in him will not sin. But anyone who keeps on sinning does not know him or understand who he is.” 1 John 3:6 (p.943)
My Next Step This Week: I am making a physical movement toward God today as an act of my decision to “come close to God.”