Is your life in chaos or disorder or are you having a hard time obeying God...do you feel a restless lack of comfort and dissatisfaction...consider James 3:16 as one possible diagnostic test for the Christ follower.
"For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and evil of every kind."
James 3:16 (NIRV)
When we are looking at other situations or other people and desiring what they have, rather than attempting to be one with where God has us, it's a problem. We are in the exact situation we are in because God has allowed our choices to take us here or He has supernaturally placed us here to learn about who He is, to teach us about ourselves and to help us teach others about Him. When our own plans for success override the acceptance of God's direction, we are, even in our hearts, rebelling against God's will at this point in our lives...It is causing the irritation or frustration in our lives.
Philippians 4:12 is a verse I quote often, because it sets up a famous verse that everyone seems to quote and sometimes, misunderstand the meaning of...
12 I
know what it’s like not to have what I need. I also know what it’s like
to have more than I need. I have learned the secret of being content no
matter what happens. I am content whether I am well fed or hungry. I am
content whether I have more than enough or not enough.
Philippians 4:12 (NIRV)
Here's what verse is set up by this..
13 I can do everything by the power of Christ. He gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13 (NIRV)
