“Those conflicts and disputes among you, where do they come from? Do they not come from your cravings that are at war within you? You want something and do not have it; so you commit murder. And you covet something and cannot obtain it; so you engage in disputes and conflicts. You do not have, because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, in order to spend what you get on your pleasures.” (James 4:1-3, NRSV)
In today’s passage we read James’ sharp critique of human behaviour, particularly the root causes of conflicts and disputes among individuals. He begins by questioning the origin of these conflicts, pointing out that they arise from the cravings and desires that are at war within each person. This internal struggle leads to outward manifestations of sin, such as murder and disputes, as individuals seek to obtain what they desire but cannot attain. The futility of such pursuits is revealed in these particular verses. People covet and strive, yet they remain unfulfilled because their desires are misplaced. Even when they ask, they do not receive because their requests are motivated by selfishness, aiming to indulge in worldly pleasures rather than seeking what is truly good and righteous.
James is writing about the destructive nature of unchecked desires and the importance of walking in God’s will. Our reading challenges us to examine our motivations and to seek not the passing pleasures of this world, but the lasting peace that comes from a life rooted in prayer, humility, and trust in our heavenly Father.
