Definition: Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible passage together. It's a really important and slightly unsettling one! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core of the Verse: "James 4:5 says: ‘Do you think that the scripture says in vain, The spirit that dwells in us lusteth to envy?’” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “James 4:5” : This is a passage from the Bible, specifically the epistle (letter) of James. It's considered one of the most profound and challenging verses in the Bible. “Do you think that…” : This is asking us to consider something carefully. We’re inviting you to examine our own thoughts and feelings. “…the scripture says in vain…” : This means we’re questioning whether what the Bible says is actually true. It's implying there might be a discrepancy between what we believe and what the text actually says. It suggests that something might be false or misleading. “The spirit that dwells in us lusteth to envy?” : This is the really interesting part! "Spirit" refers to the inner workings of our souls – our thoughts, feelings, desires, and motivations. “Lusteth” means "yearns," "desires," or "wants." So, this phrase suggests that within ourselves , there's an inherent desire to be envious - to want what others have, or to feel resentful of their good things. What’s the Big Picture? This verse is about our own thoughts and desires . It points out that we can sometimes be prone to negative feelings – envy, resentment, jealousy – because those emotions are often rooted in something within ourselves. It's a reminder that our minds can be deceptive! Why is this important? Jesus frequently uses this kind of language to challenge us. He’s saying that we need to look inward and examine our own hearts. It’s not about criticizing others; it's about recognizing when we might be harboring these negative thoughts. In short, the verse is urging us to: Be aware of our own thoughts. Don’t let negativity control us. Seek God’s guidance and peace within ourselves. Does this mean we should envy others? Absolutely not! This verse isn't saying that everyone should be envious. It's about acknowledging the potential for negative feelings within ourselves and striving to overcome them. It’s a call to cultivate a spirit of gratitude and contentment – focusing on what God has given us, rather than what we lack. --- To help me tailor this explanation further, could you tell me: Are there any specific aspects of this verse that you'd like me to elaborate on? (e.g., its historical context, its connection to Christian teachings?)