4-6 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.”

7-10 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.

Read full chapter

But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says:

“God opposes the proud
    but shows favor to the humble.”[a](A)

Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil,(B) and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you.(C) Wash your hands,(D) you sinners, and purify your hearts,(E) you double-minded.(F) Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom.(G) 10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.(H)

Read full chapter

Footnotes

  1. James 4:6 Prov. 3:34