James 4

Apparently, these people were having trouble relating to one another. James, here, explains why they were having these problems. It began in their own lusts. They lusted for things that they didn't have. They couldn't get the things that they wanted. So, they envied and fought to get what they wanted. James tells us that the real reason that they didn't have was because they didn't ask God. Or, if they did ask God, they were asking for wrong reasons and God did not give them what they wanted. They had committed spiritual adultery with God. He wanted to be their Husband and Provider, but they had left Him, and so, He left them. James tells them to repent of their pride, submit to God, draw nigh to God and He would draw nigh to them. If they would humble themselves, God would lift them up. James goes on to instruct them not to speak evil of each other and judge each other. That is God's job. Next, James addresses those who thought that they were in control of their own lives. They were planning as if God had no control over their lives. They didn't think of the possibility that God might have other plans for them. Instead, he says, that we should make our plans and say, "If the Lord will." For, we don't know what will come tomorrow. Only God does. Lastly, he tells us that we should do what we know. We can have all the knowledge in the world, but it won't do us any good unless we put it into practice in our everyday lives.