James 4:1-3 states a very simple truth that has profound implications: internal lust has external consequences.
From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members? ~ James 4:1
Do you see it? There are external “wars and fightings” among people because of “lusts that war” within people. These “lusts” are sinful passions/desires that are destructive to you and to others (v. 2).
Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. ~ James 4:2
Lust produces both strife-filled communication (“fight”) and actions (“war”). Can strife occur for any other reason than someone’s lusts? I believe no. If there is strife, someone is revealing their sinful heart. There is no other source of strife apart from internal lust. Think about that!
Furthermore, lust will impede your prayers.
Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts. ~ James 4:3
Lust-laced prayer is ineffective because it is sending wickedness before a holy God. He can’t be a part of your sin! God designed prayer as a wonderful communication channel between us and Him. We abuse His gift when we ask for lust fulfillment.
Lustful actions and prayers will never satisfy because they are based on desires outside of God’s will.
Application:
- Fight against your internal lusts.
- Trust in God. He alone can satisfy!
