Begins Within! (part 1 of 3)

So much relative to our life action begins from within. What is seen by others outwardly is what boils up from the inside. This is why Jesus' teaching emphasized a focus on the heart from which the mouth speaks and actions arise. ( Matthew 12:34; 15:18-19) When what is within is not controlled, how can we expect the outward to be restrained?

James warned. . .
"(1) What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this, that YOUR PASSIONS ARE AT WAR WITHIN YOU? " ( James 4:1 ESV)

Is there a war going on closer to home than we might like to admit? Unrest on the outside often begins with turmoil on the inside. What is going on relative to our passions? Are we passionate about the right things or is there a battle going on within that we are allowing to spill out on others? Though truth rightfully finds itself in conflict with that which is false, most quarrels arise from too much focus on what self desires. Self-centeredness is one of the most common promoters of conflict in about any level of society. Then there are also times when one doesn't feel good about themselves that they tend to take it out on others. This, again, is an example of inner turmoil allowed to outwardly erupt and create conflict.

Life right with God brings us PEACE WITH HIM. "Passions" (Greek "hedone", from which comes the word "hedonism") must be restrained. Being right with God also aids in providing PEACE WITHIN ourselves even when conflict may be around us. Remaining CALM WITHIN can prompt calmer actions or reactions to the situations we encounter. May we experience more and more of that victory within.

Have a great day SEEKING THE LORD'S HELP OVER THE BATTLE WITHIN!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on self-centeredness