james 4:2 kjv

James 4:2, KJV: Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. James 4:2, NASB

: You lust and do not have, so you commit murder. And you are envious and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel.

Full Answer

Who Is James Addressing?

Take a moment to read this whole thought in James, and as you’re reading ask yourself: who is James talking to?

Why Are You Asking? A Look at Motives

Looking closely at having not because of asking not reveals that the problem is not really in the asking. The problem is in the reason why you are asking.

The Negative Power of Coveting

This type of emotion is not only unhealthy, it is a catalyst that leads to fights, quarrels, and yes—even murder. I must remind you again that James is talking to Christians. The striking thing about this desire is that it comes from within you.

The Problem of Misplaced Desires

Another problem here is the object of the desires, or the things that bring you pleasure. It would be one thing if you were desiring to be more like Christ or to be filled with more of the Holy Spirit, those desires are not only beneficial to you but also to others. The desires James refers to are only beneficial to you.

How Does James 4:2 Read in Other Translations?

Looking at other translations can give greater clarity to the full meaning of any biblical verse. Consider these two translations:

The 3-Check Prayer Litmus Test

We have clearly seen in James that just praying is not enough. You must look closer at the motives you have. Because you do not ask is not the only reason you do not receive. To help you when you pray, I want you to check these three things.

A Closing Thought on Motives

Motives are so important, and sometimes we can be blinded and not see them in our own heart. Thankfully, God is not blind, and he is willing to expose motives if you ask him. So today, before you pray or do anything, let’s pray what David prayed: