STRIVE WITH NO ONE

08/16/2024

“For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder [unrest, rebellion] and every evil thing and morally degrading practice” (James 3:16).

When we witness upheavals, criminality, or corruption in our communities—when wickedness becomes the norm in homes, workplaces, and society at large—it’s easy to focus on these issues as standalone problems. But often, these are merely symptoms of a deeper, more insidious root.

James 3:16 pinpoints jealousy and selfish ambition as the underlying causes of chaos, evil deeds, and morally degrading practices. When our motives, thoughts, and words are dominated by "me," "I," and "my," we open the door for a satanic intrusion.

Jesus warned, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy...” (John 10:10). Satan’s visits are not merely to tempt; his intent is to wreak havoc in every conceivable way. Among believers, he often accomplishes this by seducing us into covetousness, pride, and selfishness.

If you’re determined to live a life free of strife, the first thing to recognize is that you don’t belong to yourself. 1 Corinthians 6:20 reminds us, “…you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” You are not your own. And if you belong to the Lord, there’s no room for envy or strife. Your ambitions must align with His, or you risk conflicting with others’ interests.

The second key is to practice the God-kind of love toward others. While love is a term often used in many contexts, the Bible speaks of four distinct types—romantic, familial, friendly, and godly love. It’s this godly love, or Agape, that Christians are called to embody. Romans 13:10 tells us that Agape “…does no wrong to its neighbor.” This love isn’t something you need to work up or pretend to have; it’s already been lavishly poured into your heart.

Romans 5:5 declares that Agape “…has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” When you yield to the Holy Spirit, every basis for strife fades away.

As you spend time with the Lord today, let His love overflow in you, drowning out any seeds of discord that may have taken root in your heart. Every crisis you’ve encountered has likely stemmed from strife. Allow the Holy Spirit to shine a light on any unresolved conflicts or grievances, whether they’re your own or others’. Be quick to forgive and to seek forgiveness.

Remember, until there is no offense in your heart, the enemy has free rein in your life. It’s time to put an end to evil within your spiritual jurisdiction—whether in your family, workplace, or place of worship.

Have a day filled with peace and grace!

Faith-Filled Confession

I live at peace with everyone, loving and forgiving all, including those who have persecuted and abused me, in one way or another. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Prayer Direction

1. Pray against every claim of the spirit of rebellion on our children, declaring that it will be futile. Affirm that our children belong to the Lord.

   - Psalm 127:3: "Children are indeed a heritage from the LORD, and the fruit of the womb is His reward."

2. Pray that our children bring honor and joy to their parents throughout this school year. Pray against any attempts by the enemy to use our children to hinder the grace of God in our lives.

   - Proverbs 15:20: "Sensible children bring joy to their father; foolish children despise their mother."

One-Year Bible Reading Plan: Psalm 105-106; Romans 15:1-21