You [are like] unfaithful wives [having illicit love affairs with the world and breaking your marriage vow to God]! Do you not know that being the world’s friend is being God’s enemy? So whoever chooses to be a friend of the world takes his stand as an enemy of God.
James 4:4 AMPC
The “world” in this verse refers to the sinful, secular system that operates in opposition to God. It encompasses values, attitudes, and practices contrary to God’s will and commandments. James emphasizes that Christians cannot simultaneously align themselves with worldly values and with God; you cannot serve two masters.
However, many believers have chosen to take their stand as enemies of God rather than standing against worldly influences because of temporary pleasures. A person who fails to stand for the truth, whether at work or in daily activities, has taken a stand as an enemy of God.
Friendship with the world implies adopting and valuing the priorities, standards, and desires of secular society. These often stand in opposition to God’s teachings and values. As Christians, we are to live a holy life, exemplifying Christ and drawing others to Him. As Matthew 5:14-16 says: “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.”
Believers must light up the world and influence it positively, not the other way around.
Consider the story of the Rich Young Ruler in Matthew 19:16-22. A young man asks Jesus what he must do to gain eternal life. When Jesus, in further discussion with the man tells him to sell his possessions and give to the poor, the man goes away sad because he had great wealth. His attachment to his wealth prevented him from fully committing to Jesus. Similarly, the love of money, pride, and the desire for possessions can become idols, leading to enmity against God.
In Romans 12:2, Paul urges believers to resist conforming to worldly patterns and instead transform their minds through renewal. Additionally, in 2 Timothy 4:10, Paul mentions Demas, who deserted him because he loved the world. Demas’ choice to prioritise worldly pleasures over his missionary work with Paul illustrates the consequences of loving the world over God.
Therefore, as believers, we need to examine our actions and attitudes to ensure they do not align with worldly values but with God’s. We must ask ourselves if our behaviour reflects friendship with the world, which is enmity against God.
In summary, James 4:4 calls for a clear distinction between worldly values and God’s commandments. As believers, our lives should reflect the light of Christ, influencing the world positively rather than being influenced by it. A true commitment to God requires us to prioritise His will over worldly pleasures. By doing so, we honour our relationship with God and live a life that draws others to Him. Remember, you cannot serve two masters; choose God and live in His light.
