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Devotional: The Cause of Conflict is Sinful Desire

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“Counseling through the Word” Devotional: The Cause of Conflict is Sinful Desire


Conflict is an inevitable part of life, but have you ever wondered why it happens? Why do disagreements escalate into fights and quarrels, even among believers? James, the brother of Jesus, offers a powerful insight into the root cause of conflict: our own sinful desires. As we reflect on his words, let’s examine our hearts and seek to understand how God calls us to respond to conflict in a way that honors Him.

Scripture: James 4:1-6

“What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you? You desire and do not have, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have, because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions. You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. Or do you suppose it is to no purpose that the Scripture says, ‘He yearns jealously over the spirit that he has made to dwell in us’? But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.'”

Devotional Thought: The Cause of Conflict is Sinful Desire

Conflict is something we encounter in our relationships, but as James points out, the root of conflict often lies within our own sinful desires. Our passions, driven by selfishness, are in constant turmoil, and this internal strife leads to external quarrels and division. 

When we covet what others have, or when we seek fulfillment outside of God’s will, we inevitably clash with those around us. The truth James reveals is that much of our discontent and conflict arises because we either fail to ask God for what we need or we ask with wrong motives, seeking to satisfy our own selfish desires.

In verse 4, James uses the harsh term “adulterous people” to describe those who turn to the world for satisfaction instead of turning to God. Friendship with the world, seeking approval or fulfillment from its values, is at odds with being faithful to God. When we pursue worldly desires, we make ourselves enemies of God. 

But there is hope. James assures us that God gives more grace, especially to the humble. Those who recognize their need for God’s help and turn to Him in humility will receive the grace to overcome their selfish desires and pursue peace.

Bringing it Home: Applying What We Learned

  • Recognize the Source of Conflict: Much of the conflict in our lives stems from our own sinful desires. Take time to examine your heart and ask God to help you see where selfishness might be driving your actions.
  • Seek God in Prayer: Instead of striving to get what you want through conflict, bring your desires before God in prayer. Ask with a pure heart, seeking His will above your own.
  • Pursue Humility: God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. Commit to seeking humility in your relationships and allow God to change your heart.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, forgive me for the times when I let my selfish desires cause conflict and division. Help me to seek You and Your will in all things. Grant me the humility to admit my faults and to pursue peace with others. May I be a reflection of Your grace and love, living as a peacemaker in a world of conflict. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Questions for Reflection (Managing Conflict in Godly Ways)

  • What are some recent conflicts in your life, and how might your own desires have contributed to them?
  • How can you align your desires more closely with God’s will?
  • In what ways can you practice humility in your relationships this week?

By recognizing the root causes of conflict and seeking God’s grace, we can transform our relationships and live as peacemakers in a world of conflict.

Take the Next Step on Your Journey

Thank you for joining me today. If you found this lesson helpful, I encourage you to explore more resources and support on my website, https://jameslongjr.org/. You can also watch my video on my YouTube channel.

Finally, would you consider joining our Lessons for Life monthly membership or our online group coaching, where you’ll find powerful coaching videos, a supportive community, and step-by-step guidance for lasting transformation?

Remember, true change is possible when you walk in God’s grace and for His glory. Until next time, may you find peace, hope, and joy in Christ alone. Blessings!

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