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James 4:7

King James Version (KJV)

“In our prayers we talk to God, in our Bible study God talks to us, and we had better let God do most of the talking.”
— D.L. Moody

James 4:7

Verse 7 of 17

Scripture focus

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

James 4:7 — KJV

Commentary

Commentary on James 4:7

Theological / Devotional

Submit. James here begins a series of ten imperatives, which every church member subject to the danger of becoming a “friend” to the world (see v. 4) does well to heed. Before God can bestow His “grace” (v. 6) the “humble” man must be willing to submit his will to God’s plan. Submission implies complete trust that all God’s arrangements are for his own good (see Heb. 12:9).

Therefore. That is, because of the danger of pride and self-interest Christians must place themselves under God’s command. He promises not to allow any temptation beyond our power of resistance (see 1 Cor. 10:13).

Resist. Gr. anthistēmi, “take a stand against.” Compare Eph. 4:27.

Devil. The personality of the devil is clearly implied (see on Matt. 4:1). Paul describes the Christian’s preparation for successfully resisting the “wiles” of the devil (see on Eph. 6:13-17). Christ’s victory over the devil in the wilderness (see on Matt. 4:1-11) was gained “through submission and faith in God” (DA 130). Every Christian will resist temptation as Christ did.

Flee. The weakest man who finds refuge in the power of Christ will cause Satan to tremble and to flee (DA 131).

By SdaBc