In the book of James, readers are confronted with the conflict between their spirit and their flesh. The flesh has self-focused desires, ambitions for control, and a deepening connection with the world. The spirit wants to submit to God, allow Him to guide, and transform our hope and ambition towards building His kingdom for His glory.

When we give ourselves over to our own flesh, we are quick to boast in our plans and our desires. We are also quick to fight and struggle with others. These are symptoms of the war within. Instead, by meditating on God's desires and teaching, we can keep our lives in check. We can then choose to submit to God's rule over our life, because He promises to lead in all truth and provide what we need. He resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.