Or do you think the Scripture says without reason that the spirit he caused to live in us envies intensely? (James 4:5)
There are two ways to read this verse. One traditional view of this verse is that James is talking about our soul here, the “spirit” God put within us at creation. He’s basically confirming that we are jealous at heart, constantly dissatisfied and longing for what we do not have. That fits the passage, and it’s what many translators think is the original intent.
But…I dunno…
Another reading of this verse capitalizes the word “Spirit” and renders “envies intensely” as “longs jealously.” In this view, James is talking about the Holy Spirit, whom the Father has caused to live in every believer. He is reminding us that our God gets really possessive when it comes to his relationship with us.
As a young teenager, I knew an adult married couple who boasted of their “Open relationship.” It was the first time I had ever heard of that concept. I wasn’t a Christian yet, but the idea that two people would pledge to remain faithful to each other–except when they didn’t feel like it–made me truly uncomfortable. Granted, both spouses were woefully unattractive, so I figured the whole point was moot. Still…
Beloved, the Lord Jesus Christ does not do open relationships.
So, yes, I took the second translation here, recklessly casting aside the advice of experts in order to follow my own thoughts on the nature of God. I promise I’m not trying to start a cult. If perchance you see me in the street today, please do not scream “Heretic” and throw fruit and shoes at me.
Happy Tuesday, Beloved.
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