Definition: But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from James 4:16. It's a really important one about our attitudes and how we should feel. Here’s the explanation in simple terms: Basically, it means: “Don’t be proud! Excessive boasting – feeling like you’re better than everyone else or that you deserve special treatment – is actually harmful.” Let's unpack that a little further: “But now ye rejoice…” This part sets up a contrast. It’s saying that we used to have these feelings of pride and excitement, but we’ve stopped doing so. It’s like a switch has been flipped. “…in your boastings” "Boastings" means feeling proud or showing off. It's about exaggerating yourself and making yourself seem better than everyone else. “All such rejoicing is evil.” This is the core message. James is saying that excessive pride (boasting) isn’t good – it’s actually bad. It can lead to problems in our lives. Why does this matter? Excessive pride can cause a lot of trouble. It can: Make us bitter: Pride often leads to anger and resentment towards others. Stop us from helping others: When we think we’re better than everyone, we don't want to share our time or help someone else. Keep us from seeking God: Pride can keep us focused on ourselves rather than on worshipping and connecting with God. So, James is encouraging us to shift our focus away from feeling superior. He’s urging us to cultivate humility – a sense of being equal before God and recognizing that we are all made in His image. In short: Don't let pride control you! Focus on loving God and others, not on how much better you are than everyone else. --- Do you have any questions about this verse? Would you like me to: Explain it further with a story? Give you some examples of how pride can manifest itself?