Are You a Stay-at-Home Prodigal?
In James 4:1-6, we uncover a striking revelation about the state of believers within the church. James paints a picture of individuals who, despite being part of the church community, are ensnared by worldly desires and behaviours. There seems to be a parallel drawn between these believers and the prodigal son of Luke 15: the believers in vs 3 ‘spend on their pleasures’ while the prodigal son ‘spent everything’ (Lk 15:14) on all he pleasured. The difference between the believers and the prodigal, however, is that unlike the prodigal, the believers James is writing to are displaying this behaviour in the church – they’re like prodigals who have never left home.
James begins by highlighting the presence of conflicts and disputes among these believers, reminiscent of wars and fights. These conflicts, he asserts, stem from the internal war within each individual, driven by the flesh seeking self-gratification. While these conflicts may not always escalate to physical altercations, their effects are equally detrimental, creating division and discord within the church.
Further delving into the characteristics of these stay-at-home prodigals, James identifies lust, murder, and coveting as prevalent sins. He emphasises that the pursuit of these desires may offer temporary pleasure but ultimately leads to dissatisfaction and perpetual craving. Consequently, such living results in feeling trapped in a cycle of unfulfilled desires and spiritual emptiness.
Moreover, James addresses the misguided prayers of these believers, which seek to fulfill selfish desires rather than aligning with God’s will. He warns against the temptation of prioritising worldly pursuits over spiritual fidelity, likening it to spiritual adultery that estranges believers from their divine betrothed.
Amidst this bleak portrayal of spiritual waywardness, James offers a ray of hope. He reminds believers of the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, yearning jealously for their hearts. The Holy Spirit serves as a guiding force, leading believers back to their first love and prompting them to repentance.
In essence, James’s message serves as a call to introspection for believers. Are we, like the stay-at-home prodigals, ensnared by worldly desires within the sanctuary of God’s house? Or are we committed progeny, steadfast in our faith and devotion to our heavenly Father?
As we navigate the complexities of faith and the allure of the world, may we heed James’s call to return to our first love and forsake the fleeting pleasures of this world. Let us strive to live as faithful progeny, guided by the Holy Spirit and devoted to fulfilling God’s will in our lives.