“But He gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” James 4:6 (NIV, emphasis mine)
I cannot believe this is a struggle, I thought as I quietly listened. I knew her story. I knew she had an immense Biblical background. She had many family members serving in ministry. Years ago at our first meeting, I was overwhelmed at her deep theological understanding, her godly heart, her incredible faith.
That particular day I was astonished by her unfaithfulness. What happened to her faith? Why is this a struggle? My heart broke as I heard her deep internal debate.
I felt for her. I truly did. But what caused me even more distress was not that she struggled; no, I was overcome by the revelation of my own humanity: I had judged her.
I didn’t mean to. I truly hadn’t. But, the thought came, and remained.
And, I hated myself for it.
But, it was there, emblazoned on my mind.
When the realization smacked me full force, my heart fell in deep anguish.
How would Jesus want me to respond now?
What would Jesus do?
What did Jesus do?
He gave even more grace.
“The Lord mocks the mockers but is gracious to the humble.” Proverbs 3:34 (NLT)
She, who was struggling, was gently held in the palm of God’s loving hand, His grace heaped upon her. Her sincere tears flowed as God’s grace cascaded over her, cleansing her deeply and thoroughly.
I, on the other hand, sat, entertaining judgmental thoughts, my thoughts warding back God’s grace. If left unchecked, I would receive God’s opposition.
That was not a position I wanted to play!
Heavenly Father! How to change my heart, my mind, my reflexive thoughts?
James 4:7 outlines the answer.
Submit. Submit to God. I must submit myself, my thoughts, and my mind over to God.
Take captive every thought. Use Philippians 4:8-9 as measuring stick. If my thoughts are not true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, or praiseworthy, I must banish them.
Resist. Resist the devil and He will flee. When he shows up, I can boot him out. He won’t always be there badgering; he will flee if I ask God to help me resist him and cast him away.
Come. Come near to God and He will come near to you. (Verse 8) He’s awaiting an invitation. If I invite Him into my life, He wants to come. He is simply waiting until I ask.
That’s a promise! I’m not left alone here. When I come to Him, humbled and sincerely seeking Him, He will come near to me.
He will help me overcome any struggle, even a judgmental spirit. He will come when invited and He will forgive when I sincerely ask. End of story. It’s that simple. I just had to humble myself and walk through those steps.
He helped me rid my mind of judgment and He helped me grow a deep compassion. That compassion prompted me to respond with grace, a grace reminiscent of what He showed me.
My friend recovered too. She is truly a godly inspiration, and she is humble enough to admit when she needs the help of a sister. A true sister who won’t judge her, but will pray her through any situation, putting flesh on forgiveness and regifting the grace I myself had received.
I am forever thankful for His grace to me during that time. I pray it’s a lesson He will never let me forget.
When I find myself in a similar situation, I now know where to turn : first to His word for direction, then directly to Him for forgiveness.
Reflections:
What do I need to submit to God?
How has He answered me in the past?
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your great grace. When we tap into Your grace, we are more than conquerors, and indeed, we can do anything through Christ. As I stumble into an unpleasing thought, help me to identify it right away and take it captive. Please assist me in submitting to You, resisting the enemy, and drawing closer to You. Thank You for Your great love and great grace, In Jesus’ name, Amen.