Sessions 3: Cure for Conflict
Main theme: The good news about how God helps us to change our hearts.
Main text: James 4:7-10
Left off at 30:30
Key to Change
“Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you.” (v. 10)
If I humble myself and in some way get my desires in line, God says He will bring me exaltation. (Lift me up)
Because many times we don’t know what God has in store for those who love Him, we clamor after the simple things on this earth, like the praise of men.
We need to keep our eyes on what the Lord has in store for us.
Matthew 19:27-29
When all things are made new and the Son of man sits on His glorious throne, you also shall sit on twelve thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
Everyone who has served the Lord will receive a “many times” or “hundredfold” more, and shall inherit eternal life.
This isn’t a sacrifice. It’s an investment.
Psalm 37:1-6
Daniel 12:2-3
The Process of Humbling Yourself Before the Lord
Submit therefore to God (v. 7)
Get yourself in line behind God and His plans and purposes. Put your plans and purposes below God’s plans and purposes.
Resist the devil and he will flee from you. (v. 7)
Side note: The devil was prideful. Don’t be like the devil.
Draw near to God. (v. 8)
What does it mean to draw near to God? How do I practically draw near to God?
Draw near to listen to God. We listen via the Word of God.
Psalm 73:17
Coming into the sanctuary of God saved the Psalmist from his sinful idolatry.
Cleanse your hands you sinners (v. 8)
As I come and draw near to God and He shows me the wickedness in my heart and I see His glorious plan in my circumstances, that He really is working something good, I confess to God that my heart is an idolatrous heart, I confess my sins, and I will be cleansed. And like the Psalmist in Psalm 73 we start having a deeper and deeper deesire to please our God.
On a Practical Every Day Basis, How Do We Do This?
Eight questions to ask myself to spur on change.
- What is the situation?
- How am I responding?
- What am I wanting?
- What are the possible consequences of my actions?
- What should I be wanting?
- What does the Bible say about my situation and my response?
- What are the possible consequences both now and in eternity if I please the Lord?
- What should I do now?