“The Hidden Culprit Of Our Defeat” (And Most Of Us Never Saw It Coming) James 3:13-16 Sessions 1, 2 July 19, 2026 Strife is a poison that works to defeat, divide, distract, and destroy everything Good that the Lord desires for us! It works as an agent of the enemy in our relationships, business, church, governments, teams, etc. What is strife? Strife: the competitive inward drive for self-centered agenda, self-focused results, push to get others to defer to my agenda, methods! Strife is NOT disagreement, or confrontation. It is an internal contention. What are it’s results? Self-deception; self-indulgent, demonic influence, confusing conflict, access to everything evil. (James 3:16) What is strife’s “Root”? An internal agenda and mindset to “have it my way.” This contentious striving disturbs the peace of God and violates His Love. (Romans 5:8) It grieves the Holy Spirit! (Ephesians 4:30-32) How To Deal with the enemy of Strife Recognize Strife’s presence by the Spirit. (Psalm 139:23,24) “Search me O God” Confront the enemy. Be diligent! (James 4:6, 7) Close the door! Via the authority in the Word, declare the promises and ownership of the Lord. (Proverbs 26:20) Practical Principles For Victory Over Strife/Contention: (*Remember: this is an ongoing War! (See Acts 15:37-40) Love, honor, respect, and prayer are non-negotiable. (Separation, when these are still present, is sometimes necessary. “You can’t Fix everything”: (Romans 12:18) “If possible, as far as it lies with you, be at peace with all”. Start with “me”! Humble self and ask the Lord to reveal what I need to see! (Psalm 139:23, 24); (Self Repent) In prayer, receive the Love of God by faith, for the other party. Forgive them, pray for them …. (Romans 5:8; Matthew 5:44; Ephesians 4:32) ** “Lord, I obey you, by your Grace, through the Holy Spirit, not by my mind or feelings, but through Your Grace, I forgive ______________________.” It is through YOUR GRACE, by Your Spirit, that YOU will lead them to see what YOU want them to see.” By God’s Grace, make a firm decision to close the door to strife and keep closing it! Recognize the agents and traps of strife! When engaged, speak the Truth in Love. Be willing to suffer for doing right. (1 Peter 2:20, 22)