“But He gives a
greater grace. Therefore it says, ‘God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace
to the humble.’” (James 4:6 [NASB])
Many times in our lives, we want what other people have. As a small child
going through the shops with our parents, we beg for one thing or another our
eyes see. We may even reach out and secret something from a shelf into our hand
gripping it tightly so no one will know.
Later in life, we see our friends in school wearing the latest style in
clothes or driving a new car and we desire it, even envy the friend. It’s even
possible we see a person in school get good grades and we look furtively when
they take exams to steal their answers.
As an adult, we compete for better jobs with higher pay and/or prestige.
We spend our money on bigger houses, more cars, boats, and expensive vacations,
but maybe not filling a void we feel. We may keep spending and find no peace in
that so work harder spending more time at work to earn more accolades and money
to buy something bigger and grander. Still, the void, the joy and pleasure we
sought is not filled.
James taught God gives the greater grace (James 4:6). That for which we
sought throughout our lives – there’s got to be more. I want to experience
gratification. – is never achieved. That joy, pleasure, love, goodwill, and
kindness does not come from this world, from things and relationships. True
fulfillment comes from God through His grace.
If you understand this and realize you are not fulfilled, you cannot seem
to reach that point of “ah, this is it,” then you recognize that God-void.
James tells us what we must do. Turn to God. Submit to Him. Resist the devil.
Come near to God. Wash your hands. Purify your hearts. Humble yourselves before
God.
This sounds like a big list. Really it is only two – ask God to forgive
you and follow Him.
Are you tired of seeking for more and finding
it does not fill the desire in you?
Fill that void with God. He is what you are missing. God created all
humankind to be in relationship.
Come to Him, find relationship and peace, and
receive His greater grace.
