Alliance & Reliance! (2 of 3)

Yesterday, as we considered alliances being made to gain more strength against an enemy, we also noted some alliances have been made with an enemy in order TO SECURE PEACE. The devil is an enemy who may deceptively promise PEACE, but he is certainly not one with whom we would want to seek an alliance. However, in association with the subject of enemies, note something else James pointed out that must be kept in mind.

James stated…
“You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes TO BE A FRIEND OF THE WORLD MAKES HIMSELF AN ENEMY OF GOD.” ( James 4:4 ESV)

To befriend the world is to go along with its ways and to do so is to become an enemy of God. To live outside a relationship with Christ and to choose to live outside the sphere of God’s Will is to be an enemy of God because we are not living for Him, but rather against Him. Allying ourselves with the world and relying upon its standards and wisdom for life must be guarded against because we do not want God for an enemy. (note Hebrews 12:29) It is in Christ, we have been delivered from the wrath of God ( Romans 5:9-10) and where we can find peace ( Romans 5:1) with the One with whom we would otherwise be enemies. Therefore we must be resolute in our decision to break from the world and the things of it. (note 1 John 2:15-17) We cannot be “double minded” ( James 4:8) in loving and following the things of the world and the things of God. Instead we must fully ally ourselves with God, accepting His provision of PEACE that has enabled us to no longer be His enemies. To befriend God and rely upon His Will is the only path that leads to PEACE. May we remain on it.

Have a great day BEING A COHORT OF GOD!
Carl

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