From: "Phil Rembleski"

Cc:

Sent: Wed, Jul 8, 2026 at 4:42 AM

7-8-26   THOUGHTS            

A plain simple reading today, shedding simple light on our human weaknesses.  We must overcome the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life (1John  2:16)

Jas 4:1-8 Message Bible  Where do you think all these appalling wars and quarrels come from? Do you think they just happen? Think again. They come about because you want your own way, and fight for it deep inside yourselves.  2  You lust for what you don’t have and are willing to kill to get it. You want what isn’t yours and will risk violence to get your hands on it. You wouldn’t think of just asking God for it, would you? 3  And why not? Because you know you’d be asking for what you have no right to. You’re spoiled children, each wanting your own way. 4  You’re cheating on God. If all you want is your own way, flirting with the world every chance you get, you end up enemies of God and his way. 5  And do you suppose God  doesn’t care?  The proverb has it that "he’s a fiercely jealous lover." [NASB "He jealously desires the Spirit which He has made to dwell in us"?]   6  And what he gives in love is far better than anything else you’ll find. It’s common knowledge that "God goes against the willful proud; God gives grace to the willing humble." 7  So let God work his will in you. Yell a loud no to the Devil and watch him scamper. 8  Say a quiet yes to God and he’ll be there in no time. Quit dabbling in sin. Purify your inner life. Quit playing the field. [NASB  purify your hearts, you double-minded.]
                         [Read from a good word for word translation]

Our Prayer:
Teach us to die to self, O God. May we humbly learn submission, that the joy of Your love’s action can provide new life in us.  Truly  “what You give in love is far better than anything else we will find!”  How wonderful to be Your children!  Eternal  hope is so powerful!   In Jesus’ name,   Amen.