Where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. —James 3:16

Two ships collided in the Black Sea in 1986, hurling hundreds of passengers into the icy waters and causing a tragic loss of life. News of the disaster was further darkened when an investigation revealed that the accident was caused by human stubbornness. Each captain was aware of the other ship's presence and both could have taken evasive action to avert the collision. But neither wanted to yield to the other. By the time they saw the error of their ways, it was too late.

According to James, even greater havoc and loss can be created in human relationships for similar reasons (3:14-16). We prefer to blame the world's problems on religious or political differences. But James said the root problem is "bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts" (3:14), which stems from pride. That's what caused Lucifer to fall from heaven (Isaiah 14:12), and Adam and Eve to lose their innocence in Eden (Genesis 3:6).

So what is the solution? How can we keep selfish ambition and pride from turning into major disasters? We must draw on "the wisdom that is from above"—wisdom that is "pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits" (James 3:17). That will mark the beginning of harmony—not havoc.

-MRDII


There is a power of selfishness—
The proud and willful I—
And ere my Lord can reign in me,
That proud old self must die.

-Anon.

Some troubles come from wanting our own way; others come from being allowed to have it.