This post is Day 4 in a series of studies about “James”. I strongly suggest you begin with the introduction to this study, please click here to read it.

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James – Day 4

In a world where financial crises come and go we must keep our eyes on the only firm foundation; the God who is bigger than every circumstance, the God who promises to meet all our needs, the God who is teaching us daily to trust Him more.

James 1:9-11

The brother in humble circumstances ought to take pride in his high position. But the one who is rich should take pride in his low position, because he will pass away like a wild flower. 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.

The Thought

This seems a strange attitude, but using the flower image, James is teaching us that very little in this world is permanent, and God sees everything from a very different point of view.

Both the rich man and the poor man are going to go the way of the wild flower, so neither should spend too much time even thinking about their present circumstances. Both these men are equal in Christ’s eyes, and God has the ability to change their circumstances very quickly.

In a world where financial crises come and go we must keep our eyes on the only firm foundation; the God who is bigger than every circumstance, the God who promises to meet all our needs, the God who is teaching us daily to trust Him more.

In the longterm, a poor believer is much better off than a rich non-believer, because he sees his situation through God’s eyes. That makes a huge difference.

Action

Praise God for your financial situation, whether rich or poor or somewhere in between. Praise Him that He provides everything you need. Remember to praise Him for prayers He has answered in the past few days.

Pray for help to keep your eyes on Him and not on your trials. Pray for those facing financial difficulties right now. Ask God if He wants you to help anyone in difficulty. Remember Luke 6:38.