A man
once asked me, “What is your biggest problem?” I replied, “I see my biggest
problem every day in the mirror.” I am referring to those “me first” desires
that lurk in my heart.
In James
4:1 we read: “Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come
from your desires for pleasure that war in your members?” The words “desires
for pleasure” refer to our self-serving desires. That’s why in James 1:14 we
are told: “Each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and
enticed.” James warns that such “me first” desires will destroy our friendship
with God (4:4) and cause divisions, wars, and fights (vv.1-2).
Therefore,
we are told to put off “me first” thinking. How do we do this? First, “Submit
to God” (4:7). We need to get our ranking right—God is God and His will must
always be first. Second, “Draw near to God” (v.8). Deal with those desires that
lead to sin by going to God for cleansing. Don’t be double-minded, desiring
both evil and good. But rather desire to please God alone. Third, “Humble
yourselves in the sight of the Lord” (v.10). Then “He will lift you up.”
Remember,
“me first” living is not the key to success. Put God first.
When you
forget yourself, you usually start doing something others will remember. (RBC)
