Same scripture, different emphasis–and different translation. This time from The Message; this is great stuff.
You’re cheating on God. If all you want is your own way, flirting with the world every chance you get, you end up enemies of God and his way. And do you suppose God doesn’t care? The proverb has it that "he’s a fiercely jealous lover." And what he gives in love is far better than anything else you’ll find. It’s common knowledge that "God goes against the willful proud; God gives grace to the willing humble."
So let God work his will in you. Yell a loud no to the Devil and watch him scamper. Say a quiet yes to God and he’ll be there in no time. Quit dabbling in sin. Purify your inner life. Quit playing the field. Hit bottom, and cry your eyes out. The fun and games are over. Get serious, really serious. Get down on your knees before the Master; it’s the only way you’ll get on your feet.
The jealous lover is a great comparison. It’s actually the same visual the NIV’s "the spirit he caused to live in us envies intensely" stirred in my mind. It’s like the boyfriend that can’t stand seeing his woman chatting with another man. God is THAT desireous of our attention.
But despite the "affair" I often have with the world, He’s "giving more grace," (as the NIV puts it). And it’s THAT which humbles me and breaks me–causes me to hit bottom and sob (haven’t moved to "crying my eyes out" quite yet…).
I’m coming Lord. I might crawl your direction sometimes…but I’m coming.
