Chapter summary

James 4 — Draw Near to God

James calls the church out of friendship with the world and into humble submission to God — promising that he will draw near to those who draw near to him.

Where do quarrels come from? From passions at war within you. You ask and do not receive because you ask wrongly, to spend on your passions.

Friendship with the world is enmity with God; the Spirit who dwells in us yearns jealously — but he gives more grace.

Submit yourselves to God; resist the devil and he will flee; draw near to God and he will draw near to you.

Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you — and do not boast about tomorrow, for life is a mist; "if the Lord wills" should season our plans.

Key verses BSB · Public Domain (CC0)

James 4:6 “But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”” James 4:8 “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” James 4:14 “You do not even know what will happen tomorrow! What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.”

Original BibleDawn summary. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.