What is really going on? Why do we get so frustrated and angry at others? It must be what they are doing wrong, right?
James says “no”. The problem is inside of us.
It is not just their action that gives us anger and raises the fights; it is my reaction to the action. God is challenging us in His Word – my reaction is rooted in jealousy and bitterness, because I want what I want when I want it. That self-centered attitude makes us lash out at others when they don’t give us what we want, or when they have what we want. All that I need I can find in Him. That brings peace, true peace. Not just peace with God, but peace with others as well, because I will be ok if they can’t give me what I need – I am already filled up with God.
This does not, however, make us passive or dispassionate people. Rather, because we our Source is the Author of Life, we are overflowing with joy and life to others.
http://nlt.scripturetext.com/james/4-1.htm
