Exploring the Book of Ya’aqov, Pt. 17

Adulteresses! Have you not known that the world’s friendship is hostility with God? Whoever, then, wants to be a friend of the world is made an enemy of God. Do you think that, emptily, the Scripture says that with envy the רוּחַ, Ruach that He caused to live in us earnestly desires us? But greater unmerited favor He gives! Therefore, the Scripture says, “God sets Himself against proud ones; but to humble ones, He gives unmerited favor.” (יַעֲקֹב Ya’aqov 4:4-6, mjlt)

It is written that “Adonai, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God” (Exodus 34:14). This righteous jealousy springs forth from the Creator’s desire that His people love Him and not bow themselves to another god—that they not trade their devotions to some strange and foreign deity. His jealousy, however, is aroused neither from a place of insecurity nor codependence, but rather from a rightful possessiveness and ownership. He is jealous because He does not give away His love casually or cheaply. God’s love comes at a cost that no one but He is able or willing to pay. Read more