James 3:16

16 For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.

James 3:16 in Other Translations

16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.

16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice.

16 For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and evil of every kind.

16 Whenever you're trying to look better than others or get the better of others, things fall apart and everyone ends up at the others' throats.

16 For where jealousy and faction are, there is confusion and every vile deed.

16 Wherever there is jealousy and rivalry, there is disorder and every kind of evil.

16 For where envy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every kind of evil.

16 Are you jealous? Are you concerned only about getting ahead? Then your life will be a mess. You will be doing all kinds of evil things.

James 3:16 Meaning and Commentary

Ver. 16 For where envying and strife is
Where these are cherished in the heart, and especially where they break out into action, in families, neighbourhoods, states, or churches:

there is confusion and every evil work;
these occasion disturbances, raise uneasiness, make disquietude, and cause tumults whenever they appear; and put persons upon doing everything that is wicked, to gratify such insatiable lusts.

James 3:16 In-Context

14 But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth.

15 Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.

16 For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.

17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.

18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.

Cross References

• 1. ver 14; Galatians 5:20,21