Read James 1:9-11 NIV
“Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. But the rich should take pride in their humiliation – since they will pass away like a wildflower. For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant, its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way the rich will fade away even while they go about their business.”
We sometimes think that money can inoculate against life’s challenges, and we can fool ourselves into thinking that we don’t need God, at least in certain areas. James is reminding us that earthly wealth is fleeting and ultimately holds no eternal value.
When we talked about perseverance earlier in the week, we learned that our faith is built during trials and tribulations.
In his commentary on James on Bible.org, Steven J. Cole says that trials and tribulations:
“…level the playing field between the rich and the poor in church. He (James) says that the poor are rich and the rich are poor. He does not advocate for some form of forced or voluntary redistribution of wealth, but he does show that, in the church, the world’s distinctions – status for the rich and insignificance for the poor – do not hold true.”
In addition to building our faith, trials and tribulations provide a place for us to meet in faith and humility regardless of status or circumstances.
“For those that exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Matthew 23:11 NIV
Pray:
“God, please open my eyes to those suffering around me and give me wisdom not just to pray but to act. Please show me what to do today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
