Relationship PuzzlesSample

Looking in the mirror

We need to talk more about looking deep into our own mistakes. This is not fun, but it will change us into stronger and healthier people.

If you admit that you made some mistakes in this conflict, it is great that you are being honest! God cares about truth. He wants us to tell the truth about what is inside of our hearts, the pretty parts and the yucky parts. (Psalm 51:6) He knows that the truth will set us free. (John 8:32)

“But if you are selfish and have bitter jealousy in your hearts, do not brag or deny the truth.” (James 3:14)

If you think, “Hold on. I am not bitter. I am not jealous. I am not selfish.” 

God says, “Pfffff! Do not deny it!” Admit it! You are not alone. We all do. Get real with yourself. God knows everything about us and He loves us always.

Selfishness and jealousy are from the devil. (James 3:15) Do we want to be the devil’s toy or be God’s lamp?  

“Where jealousy and selfishness are, there will be confusion and every kind of evil.” (James 3:16)  

Sometimes, jealousy and selfishness stay in our hearts because we do not have faith that God will take care of us. We feel like God has forgotten to give us the good things that we see Him give to others. 

God knows what causes fights among us. God says it is our desires within us, the things that we want so much and we don’t have yet. If we don’t have what we need, maybe we need to ask Him. (James 4:1-3) 

Response:

What desires are battling inside of you? What makes you feel jealous?

For me, it was the desire to be loved, but I tried to get love in unhealthy ways. This causes problems in my relationships. I still must work on trusting God to love me and meet my needs.

Tell Jesus about what you really want and what you really need.