Conflict is something we all know too well. We see it in the world—wars, political division, arguments at work or school—but it doesn’t stay “out there.” It comes into our homes, our marriages, our families, and even our churches. The real issue isn’t Washington, D.C.; it’s the human heart. James tells us that conflict begins with our desires. We want what we want, and when someone blocks our way, sparks fly. It may not result in violence, but it produces bitterness, broken relationships, and wounded churches. Even more serious, James says these selfish desires harm our prayer life. They poison both our relationships with others and our fellowship with God. So James cuts straight to the heart of the matter. Before peace can flow outward, our desires must be surrendered to the Lord. Only then can the conflict within us—and around us—begin to quiet.