“The Spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy” (James iv. 5).
This beautiful passage has been unhappily translated in our Revised
Version: “The Spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy.” It ought to be,
“The Spirit that dwelleth in us loveth us to jealousy.” It is the figure
of a love that suffers because of its intense regard for the loved object.
The Holy Ghost is so anxious to accomplish in us and for us the highest
will of God, and to receive from us the truest love for Christ, our Divine
Husband, that He becomes jealous when in any way we disappoint Him, or
divide His love with others.
Therefore, it is said in the preceding passage, “Ye adulterers and
adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with
God?”
Oh, shall we grieve so kind a Friend? Shall we disappoint so loving a
Husband? Shall we not meet the blessed Holy Spirit with the love He brings
us, and give in return our undivided and unbounded affection?
Was there ever a Bridegroom so loving seeking our heart to gain?