Good morning! Today we will begin reading James chapter five, where James focus’s on condemning and denouncing rich believers and unbelievers. He doesn’t warn them, he tells them what their self-centered wealth will lead them.

Bible Verse – James 5:1-3 NLT

“Look here, you rich people: Weep and groan with anguish because of all the terrible troubles ahead of you. ² Your wealth is rotting away, and your fine clothes are moth-eaten rags. ³ Your gold and silver are corroded. The very wealth you were counting on will eat away your flesh like fire. This corroded treasure you have hoarded will testify against you on the day of judgment.”

Reflection 

James chapter five can be outlined in different parts:

• Verse 1 focuses on anxiety, guilt or stress of wealth.
• Verses 2-3 focuses on the deterioration of wealth.
• Verses 4-6 focuses on the disapproval of wealth. (We will read this tomorrow).

In the verses we read today, James warns the people that money is temporary. It brings joy for a while but not forever. That the trust a person puts in money is no match for the trust they should have in God. In time, money will fade or in his words, “wealth is rotting away”. Don’t let your hearts rot away too.

James, continued to share with the people how their wealth will turn from riches to rags – it won’t last forever and if it does they can’t take it with them when they die. Just as precious metals corrode, so will their money and if not addressed it will corrode a person’s heart and consume those who allow their hearts to be consumed by it.

In previous chapters, James reminded us about self-confidence and the need for humility, but remember he also asked us to have compassion, care, and concern for all. He warns us to be mindful of our hearts toward wealth – don’t be consumed by it, be led by God as He gives us wisdom and discernment in our finances and how to navigate them as spiritually mature believers.

Challenge

This month when you receive your first paycheck, pray over it, thank God for, and ask Him for wisdom and discernment on how to use it for His glory. Allow Him to teach us how to be faithful stewards of what He has blessed us with.

Prayer

Father God, thank you for another new month to learn more about Your word. Thank you for your grace and mercy. Lord, forgive us for the times when we did not address our finances the way that You would want us to. Forgive us for the things that we have hoarded and the things we have selfishly refused to share when we have had more than enough to share. Lord, forgive us for looking over those in true need. Lord, soften our hearts to listen to Your guidance in our finances. Lord, wherever there is a financial need – Lord hear their cries and help them financially and give them/us the tools to be better stewards of every penny and dollar you give us.

Lord, be with us today as we seek Your guidance for everything in our lives. Lord, direct our hearts, minds, thoughts, and actions as we seek to live for You with an obedient heart and attuned ears to hear You. Lord, write your words on our hearts.

Lord, be our strength and our guide. Continue to help and heal those with cancer. Lord, encourage those who seem to be experiencing one difficult situation after another with no relief in sight. Lord, remind them of who You are and how much you love them. Lord, don’t let them lose sight of you or wander off. Hold them and keep them sheltered under your wing.

Lord, continue Your mighty work in our lives. Bless us with Your peace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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