Why We Hurt The Ones We Love

James 4:1-10
Dr. Roger Ferguson
August 17, 2003

Theme: People become friends and family because they care for each other. However, all too often those we love hurt because of things that are said and done. God wants you to be in kind relationships that last. In James we will see why we hurt those we love and how to mend that flaw through Christ.

I. The cause of why we hurt those we love. (4:1-3)

1. We are selfish. (v.1-2)

2. We exploit God. (v.3)

“Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are proved right when you speak and justified when you judge.”
Psalm 51:4

II. The Consequences of hurting others. (4:4-6)

1. We believe a lie

Passions (money)
Pleasure (feelings)
Power (promotion)
Can satisfy.

2. We betray a trust

3. We become enemies.

III. The cure for hurting others it to Humble yourself and God will cure relationships.

1. Surrender to God: you will. (v. 7-8)

2. Resist Satan’s seductions: you mind. (v. 7-9)

3. Get close to God and He will exalt you: your emotions. (v. 8,10)

“Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.”

2 Corinthians 7:10

Act on What You’ve Heard
What you hear is soon forgotten. What you act on becomes a part of you. James 1:22 says “be doers of the word and not hearers only.”

1. Who have you hurt and what do you need to do about it?
2. Draw near to God in prayer and ask Him to hold you and guide you. He will!
3. Have you trusted Christ and asked Him to forgive you and lead your life?