“Submit Yourselves to God”

The Epistle of James contains words of wisdom and sound advice: “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7). In other words, if we try to obey God, the things of the flesh will no longer have dominion over us. The Apostle doesn’t spare words: “Draw nigh to God and He will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.” (v8)

If we claim to be children of God, then we must continually examine our position before our Heavenly Father, for the whole creation comes under divine surveillance – and God cannot be deceived.

Humility is of great price in the sight of God:

“Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” (v10). We cannot elevate ourselves, but God can do it for us. There can be no place in our lives for ego or false attitudes, for all of us fall short in our emulation of Jesus Christ.

We all have need of greater contrition before our Creator. If we submit ourselves to Him in humility we shall be lifted up in faith and find the peace that passes understanding: “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.” (1 Peter 5:6).

DME