Becoming More Humble
Last Sunday, we continued in our “Who Am I Becoming?” series as Pastor Sean focused in on the heart of James 4:1-12, and the deep call to examine the roots of our ambition, our conflicts, and our posture before God. The early church gathered under threat and with great passion, hungry for the Word and the movement of the Spirit. That same passion is needed in us—not just on Sundays, but every day, overflowing into our work, our homes, and our relationships. The Christian life is not meant to be compartmentalized; it is to be lived with a continual, contagious zeal for Christ.
James lays out a clear, intentional path for spiritual growth: from personal transformation, to how we treat others, to the impact we have on the world. He warns that selfish ambition, even among believers, is a root of conflict, harm, and spiritual adultery. These are not just external issues, but deep matters of the heart that can destroy relationships, prayer life, and our witness to the world. James uses strong language—war, murder, adultery—not to exaggerate, but to awaken us to the seriousness of unchecked selfishness. Even in the church, sin crouches at the door, eager to take hold if we are not vigilant.
Yet, James does not leave us in despair. He points to the greater grace of God, who resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. The call is to submit to God, resist the devil, draw near to Him, and cleanse our hearts. Humility is not weakness, but the only right response to a holy and loving God. It is the seat we must take on the journey of faith, recognizing that God alone is Judge and Lawgiver. Embracing humility frees us from the tyranny of self and opens us to the blessing and nearness of God.
The challenge is practical: Where has selfish ambition crept in? What barriers keep us from humility? How can we bless others and further the gospel by laying down our pride? The Christian life is not just about hearing truth, but putting it into action—keeping short accounts, seeking reconciliation, and letting the overflow of our hearts speak Christ to the world. May we be a people who do not settle for Sunday-only faith, but who live humbly and passionately for Jesus every day.
Reflection Questions
- Where has selfish ambition crept into your life—maybe in your work, family, or even in church relationships? What are some signs that your motives might be more about yourself than about God’s purposes?
- Think about a recent conflict or tension you’ve had with another believer. Did you keep a “short account” and seek reconciliation quickly, or did you let it linger? What could you do differently next time?
- Are there any barriers—like pride, fear, or past hurt—that keep you from walking in humility? What would it look like to take a practical step toward humility this week?
- When you pray, do you find yourself mostly asking for things that benefit you, or are you seeking God’s will and the good of others? How can you realign your prayers to match what James describes?
- The sermon challenged us not to settle for a “Sunday-only” faith. What is one way you can let your passion for Jesus overflow into your everyday life this week?
Watch the Message
Worship Songs from July 13
- “Battle Belongs”
- “No Body”
- “That’s The Power”
- “What A Beautiful Name”