The term “double-minded” appears only twice in the New Testament, both times in the Epistle of James. It is a picturesque expression. Other English translations give the sense as being “a man of two minds” or “a soul-split man.” When we think of those in the Scriptures who tried to follow the Lord while yielding to other influences, we can see the tragic results. Although Lot was righteous, he moved into Sodom and vexed his soul. Although Miriam rejoiced with Moses after Israel’s deliverance at the Red Sea, she later spoke against him due to prejudice and envy. Although Solomon knew the dangers of unrighteous relationships, he chose to love many ungodly women and soon became disloyal to God.

If we do not want to repeat those errors, the verses from James provide some help. In chapter 1, believers are invited to seek wisdom by asking God for it in faith. If instead we harbor doubts when we pray, we will be double-minded people, unstable in everything else. It is true that a Christian might sometimes have a sense of uncertainty about God’s work and ways, but the doubts of James 1 are those suspicions which tell us that God cannot be trusted at all. If we pray to Him while possessing no faith in His power and goodness, what stability will we have?

Then James 4 focuses on the selfish passions which create strife among believers. Pride and jealousy will lead us to exalt ourselves, and this leads to much trouble. But if we purify our hearts—that is, if we admit our mixed motives and repent of them—we will no longer be double-minded. Then the Lord, who gives grace to the humble, will be able to lift us up.