James 4:15 – “Instead, you ought to say, ‘If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.'”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, James is offering the right attitude believers should have when making plans. After pointing out in the previous verses that life is short and uncertain, he now gives a better way to live: submit your plans to God’s will.
Instead of confidently saying, “We will go here, do this, make money,” James tells believers to say, “If it is the Lord’s will.” This is not meant to be an empty phrase or something to tack on at the end of a sentence. It’s a heart attitude—a recognition that God is in control of everything, even tomorrow.
James is teaching that all of life, even the small things like business, travel, and daily plans, should be lived in dependence on God’s will. This is a call to humility and trust, acknowledging that our future is in God’s hands, not our own.
Historical Context
James was writing to early Christians who lived in a fast-changing world filled with trade, travel, and business. Many of them were trying to live as if they were in control of their success and future without considering God.
In Jewish tradition, it was common to speak of plans in light of God’s will. However, many people—then and now—tended to forget this and live like they were the masters of their own destiny.
James is correcting that mindset and reminding them to live with a constant awareness of God’s sovereignty.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches that God is sovereign over all things. It shows that the right way to live is not in self-reliance but in submission to God’s will.
It also teaches that even ordinary, daily decisions belong under God’s authority. Planning is not wrong, but planning without recognizing God’s control is prideful.
This verse reflects the truth that believers are not owners of their lives—they are stewards, living each day under God’s direction and grace.
Literary Analysis
James uses clear, straightforward language here: Instead, you ought to say… He is correcting a common way of thinking and speaking.
The phrase “If it is the Lord’s will” becomes the centerpiece of this verse. It’s a phrase meant to shift the entire mindset of the reader from self-confidence to God-dependence.
James also uses practical, everyday language: we will live and do this or that. This shows that God’s will applies to every part of life, not just religious matters.
Biblical Cross-References
Other Scriptures reinforce this teaching:
- Proverbs 16:9 – “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”
- Matthew 6:10 – “Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”
- Acts 18:21 – Paul says, “I will come back if it is God’s will.”
- 1 Corinthians 4:19 – Paul again says, “But I will come to you very soon, if the Lord is willing.”
These verses show that living by God’s will is a central part of faithful living.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a call to live with open hands and a humble heart. In a world that celebrates personal ambition, plans, and control, James reminds believers that real security and success come from surrendering to God’s will.
It doesn’t mean we stop planning or setting goals. It means that we recognize that all of our plans depend on God’s grace and guidance.
This verse invites modern Christians to invite God into every part of life—our work, relationships, finances, and future.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s loving authority. He cares enough to want to guide His people’s steps. God is not distant or detached—He has a will and a plan, and He invites His people to trust Him.
By calling believers to say, “If it is the Lord’s will,” God is inviting them into a relationship of trust and dependence, not to burden them but to protect and lead them.
God’s love is seen in how He offers to be part of every detail of our lives.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Himself lived by this principle. In the Garden of Gethsemane, facing the cross, He prayed:
- Luke 22:42 – “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”
Jesus perfectly modeled submission to the Father’s will, even when it cost Him everything. Through His obedience, He opened the way for all believers to live under God’s loving rule.
Because of Jesus, Christians can confidently surrender their plans, knowing that God’s will is good, wise, and full of grace.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How often do you consider God’s will when making your plans?
- In what areas of your life do you struggle to surrender control to God?
- How does this verse challenge the way you think about success and the future?
- What would it look like for you to truly live each day with the mindset, “If it is the Lord’s will”?
- How does Jesus’ example of submitting to God’s will encourage you to trust God with your plans?