Becoming Men Series

As I read through the book of James, I began to see a conflict of two kingdoms emerging, and the agendas of each.

The first kingdom is ruled by pride, favoritism, selfish ambition, jealousy, foolishness, lying, boasting and fighting. The second kingdom reigns and lives in humility, equality, gentleness, purity, peace, wisdom and mercy.

One is characterized by self-desires and evil motives. The other by growing faith and endurance in humility and prayer. One comes from new life and brings forth life. One comes from death and brings more death.

Guys, we experience the fruit of life or death based on which kingdom we submit to. Death (the first kingdom’s end goal) has been reigning since the first man, Adam. Since Christ, the Kingdom of Life has been advancing against this kingdom.

As men, we can allow our own desires to rule and reign over us, producing sin and death. Or, we can allow God’s Spirit (which He has placed in us if we believe in Jesus Christ) to transform us from the heart out.

James points to the evidence in life that demonstrates which kingdom is reigning. What happens in our heart will produce evidence of which kingdom is ruling our life, and will be demonstrated in our thoughts, priorities, speech, actions, relationships, and responses to suffering and conflict.

Men– which kingdom we are submitting to is influencing who we are becoming. And so in light of this, what should we do?

I personally found the answer from James here:

“So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. Let there be tears for what you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief. Let there be sadness instead of laughter, and gloom instead of joy. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.” James 4:7-10

And In Christ, here is the ultimate good news on this kingdom battle:

“May you be filled with joy, always thanking the Father. He has enabled you to share in the inheritance that belongs to his people, who live in the light. For he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins.” Colossians 1:11-14

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Author’s Note

I want to share a “secret” on men’s growth. There are so many voices and resources bringing content forward on what it looks like to be a man. It can be exhausting and overwhelming to try to even begin somewhere. But, there is actually a guide. All of my topics and all of my writing come straight from what I have been reading in the Bible. I have found no other place to be more impactful, practical, and applicable then God’s word. No matter where you are spiritually, I believe you will find something in it for you. Give it a try today. And if you don’t have a Bible and would like one, let me know.

Alex Gerber
gerberxc@gmail.com

For more in the “Becoming Men Series”:

Becoming Men Series

Themes in James

Chapter 1

Faith and growth
Endurance in suffering
Prayer
Perspective — God’s promises
Listening=Doing

Chapter 2

Favoritism
Mercy
Evidence of faith

Chapter 3

The tongue and speech
True wisdom

Chapter 4

What produces conflict
Pride vs. humility

Chapter 5

Patience and endurance
Prayer and confession
Restoration