Introduction:     If a man is saved, he should and will show that he's saved. James is a book that points out the fact that true faith is demonstrated by works. No one is saved by works (Ephesians 2:8) but the Bible says “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10. So it is by grace that we are saved, and works are to follow. James encourages us that we should draw nigh to God. Or simply get closer to him. This is something all of us could stand to do. I pray we all desire that closer walk.

I.          THE CONDITIONS THAT MUST BE MET (V.8)

This is an act of our own will, do we want to be closer to God. If you do then you:

A.        Must Be Honest

Why is it so difficult for Christians to admit where they really are with God?

B.         Must Be Humble (v.10)

The first sin in the Bible is the sin of pride. Isaiah 14:12-14

C.        Must Be Hungry

To truly enjoy food you must be hungry. Are we really hungry to move closer to God?

D.        Must Be Holy (v.8b)

II.         THE CONFLICT THAT MUST BE MASTERED: (VV.1, 4, 7)

There is certainly a battle raging in these verses, the Spiritual against the Flesh. The three enemies that we fight are:

A.        The Flesh (v.1)

Before we can ever get closer to God we must fight the flesh. Note what Paul said about this battle. 1 Corinthians 9:27 “But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.”

B.         The World (4:4)

We must see the force of the words that are used here. God said if you are a friend to this world you were his enemy.

C.        The Devil (4:7)

Jesus gave to us the only way to defeat the devil. Matthew 4:4, 7, 10 “It is written”

III.       THE CONTRAST THAT WILL BE MANIFESTED:

Luke 10:38-42. There is a great difference between those who are walking close to God, and those who are not.

A.        MARTHA: We see that she is:

1. Cumbered In Service: Martha was cumbered about much serving, Is it a burden for you to serve God? Is church a dread or a joy?

2. Complaining About Her Sister: v.40b and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me

3. Consumed In Self: v.40c to serve alone?

4. Commanding The Savior: v.40d bid her therefore that she help me.

B.        MARY: We see that:

1. Her Sight Was Coherent: Never took her eyes off him.

2. Her Speech Was Controlled: She didn't lash back.

3. Her JHHHHHHHerHerHSeat Was Commendable: Luke 10:42 But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.

Conclusion:     Do you desire a closer walk with Jesus? His promise to you is that if you’ll move closer to Him, He’ll move closer to you!