where we get the power to change…

we are looking at the fact that having pride brings conflict in our relationships.    it does.  in fact james here in chapter 4 shows that it brings great conflict in our relationship with GOD.  verse 6, (msg) says, it’s common knowledge that GOD goes against the willful proud.  HE is against you if you are selfish, if you are proud.

have you noticed that GOD has unique ways to pop our pride?  just about the time i think, “i’ve got it all together!  i don’t need Him”, HE puts me in my place.  there’s no way we’re going to win.

so if pride is the cause of arguments – and that’s the case james is making,  “ i‘m going to have to have my way when i want it, my time, my place” –  then what is the cure?

the second part of verse 6 and verse 10 says (msg), GOD gives grace to the willing humble...get serious, really serious. get down on your knees before the MASTER. 

what is grace?  grace is GOD’s power to change.  what would you like to change about yourself?  what is it you need grace in?  what do you want to change about your relationships, your marriage, your family? 

whatever you would like to change, you need grace.  you can’t change it on your own.  you need GOD’s power and that’s called grace.  grace is the power to change and there is only one way you get grace.  you willingly humble yourself.

GOD doesn’t give grace to people who are full of pride who think, “i can do it on my own.”  HE gives it when we come and ask, “GOD, i need YOUr help”, and that’s where we get the power to make the changes we’d like to see.

just a thought from the front porch…