+DEV+ Self-Confidence

Date: October 21, 2010 12:33 AM
Topic: +DEV+ Self-Confidence

Self-Confidence

"you ought to say, 'If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.' As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil" (James 4:15-16).
Scripture Focus: James 4

It would be a rare occasion, indeed, to hear a business person say, "If it's the Lord's will, we'll move ahead with this project." An unbelieving CEO wouldn't approach business that way. Sadly, many Christian CEO's wouldn't either. Truth be told, do I acknowledge the Lord before I march ahead with my daily plans? Most of us feel so confident about our own intentions that we begin to believe we are the ones in control. Our self-confidence becomes the pillar on which we stand.

James' letter speaks volumes to us about submitting ourselves to God rather than insisting on our own way. We quarrel with each other; we make friends with the world; we are proud and quick to speak against our brother. Imagine how far James, Jesus' sibling, had come in his walk of faith! After all, he grew up with a brother who, though perfect in behavior, seemed downright crazy at times (See Mark 3:20-21.) James urges Jesus' followers then as well as us now to let Christ be our pillar and to put our confidence in Him.

Insight: When we adopt God's plans, our hearts will ultimately find rest in His provision.