^“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7

Saying “yes” to one thing means saying “no” to another. This statement is often made in the context of our busy schedules. Realizing that every “yes” excludes another yes helps us remember not to overcommit. It is beneficial to consider this in earthly terms; however, the exclusivity inherent in the statement has far reaching spiritual application, as well.

Every time we say “yes” to temptation, we’re essentially saying “no” to God. And every time we say “yes” to God, we’re saying “no” to temptation. Submission to God and submission to our earthly desires are mutually exclusive. That’s why James 4:7 offers one basic command stated two different ways. Submission to God is the positive command. Resisting the devil is the same basic command stated negatively. If you submit (say “yes”) to God, you are resisting (saying “no”) to the devil. 

This helps us know why prayer in the New Testament is surrounded by urgency and alertness. It is far easier to submit to sin than it is to submit to God. Submission to sin is an act of our human nature, weary of the battle and relying on our own wisdom and strength. Submission to God is an act of the will, led by the Spirit, prayerfully engaged in the battle, and relying on God’s strength to fight. We can’t have it both ways, and so in our temptation, we must pray that God will help us choose well.

• Why do you think so many believers think they can have it both ways—God and sin? How does James 4:7 speak to you about that in your own life?

• Pray: If you take the principle to its natural end, prayer is saying, “yes” to God and prayerlessness is saying, “yes” to temptation. Spend some time in prayer today, submitting yourself to God, thereby resisting the devil. Thank God for His promise that when you enter into the powerful presence of Christ, the devil has no option but to flee from you.