Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members?
James 4:1
The words of James echo through the ages, resonating with the struggles and conflicts that often plague relationships, both within the church and in our daily lives. Behind every argument, every disagreement, and every dispute lies the battle between our selfish desires and God’s will for us.
As believers, we are called to examine our hearts and motives. Are our actions driven by a desire for personal gain, recognition, or pleasure? Or are they motivated by a genuine love for God and others? When we prioritize our own desires above God’s will, we sow seeds of discord and division that disrupt the peace and unity of the body of Christ.
True peace and harmony can only be found through submission to God. When we surrender our will to His and seek His kingdom above our own desires, He grants us the grace to live in harmony with one another. As we humble ourselves before God, He lifts us up, filling our hearts with His love and enabling us to love others sacrificially.
In our daily interactions, let us strive to submit to God’s will. May we resist the urge to gratify our selfish desires and instead seek the unity of the body of Christ. As we yield to the leading of the Holy Spirit, may His peace reign in our hearts and overflow into our relationships with others.
Pray
Lord, forgive me for the times when I have allowed selfish desires to disrupt the peace and unity of Your body. Help me to submit fully to Your will, surrendering my selfish ambitions. Fill me with Your peace and love, that I may be an instrument of reconciliation and harmony to others. In Jesus’ name, amen.
