What causes fights, jealousy, and division—even among believers?

In this powerful message from James 4, Pastor Jayden Zwerner walks us through one of the most confronting passages in Scripture. James doesn’t blame circumstances, politics, personality conflicts, or other people. He goes deeper. The root of conflict, he says, is the battle within us—desires that were once good but have become ultimate.

Building from James 3:13–18, we’re reminded that true wisdom is humble, peace-loving, full of mercy, and sincere. But when envy and selfish ambition take root, disorder follows. James 4 asks the hard question: What happens when “me, my, and mine” take the driver’s seat of our lives?

Through the story of Rachel and Leah (Genesis 29–30), we see how unchecked jealousy and comparison can spiral into relational destruction. What begins as a good desire can slowly become an idol—reshaping our identity, our prayer life, and even our friendships.

This sermon explores:

• Why conflicts often reveal deeper heart issues
• How good desires become “ultimate things”
• What it means to delight in the Lord (Psalm 37:4)
• The danger of friendship with the world (James 4:4)
• The hope found in James 4:6 — “But He gives us more grace.”

The invitation is not shame—it’s grace. The same grace that saved you is the grace that sustains you. When we humble ourselves, submit to God, and draw near to Him, He promises to lift us up.

If you’ve ever wrestled with envy, comparison, unanswered prayer, or frustration that obedience isn’t “paying off,” this message is for you.

📖 Scripture Focus: James 3:13–18; James 4:1–10
🙏 Closing Prayer: Psalm 51:10–12

For the full gathering of this message which includes worship, visit our Youtube channel.

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