Good morning! Praise God for another day. This morning we will continue our reading in James chapter 5 where we are reminded of the reason why James condemns the wealthy. It’s not their wealth that angers him, it’s the attitude and the method in which they obtained their wealth. Join me as we continue our reading.

Bible Verse – James 5:4-6 NLT

“⁴ For listen! Hear the cries of the field workers whom you have cheated of their pay. The cries of those who harvest your fields have reached the ears of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies.

⁵ You have spent your years on earth in luxury, satisfying your every desire. You have fattened yourselves for the day of slaughter. ⁶ You have condemned and killed innocent people,^[a] who do not resist you.^”

Reflection

James spoke out against wealthy believers and nonbelievers who made their wealth off of greed and injustice practices. The wealthy were guilty of withholding pay/wages, which led to further oppression of innocent people. They would use their wealth as power to influence others with their own agendas. James is clearly aware that the money the wealthy gained was for their own pockets and it didn’t matter if innocent people were harmed in the process. He was convinced that their unscrupulous gain would be their demise.

Sisters and brothers, what James was concerned about centuries ago is still a concern today. So called believers are buying seats in the church and church boards for their own gain and not for spiritual growth. Others are using the name of God for political power but don’t have a relationship with God.

By God’s grace I pray that we don’t become consumed by wealth/money, and with the financial blessing that we receive or have will bring about blessings to others. The more that we spiritually mature, the more we should recognize how blessed we are. As believers, we are reminded that wealth is and can be a blessing when we allow God to receive the glory, and share what we have with those in need.

Let us always have a pure heart to bless others who are without for the glory of God.

Prayer

Father God, we thank you for your grace and love toward us. Thank you for every blessing you have given us. Thank you for the opportunity to be able to bless others with the spiritual and financial gifts you have blessed us with.

Lord, help those who are in financial need. Help those living in oppression or in need. Lord, open up doors for those who are struggling with obtaining gainful employment. Lord, open door after door. Lord, encourage those who are seeking opportunities to continue as you make a way for them.

Lord, be with us today as you always are, but help us to feel your presence. Help remind us that You are near. Lord, we pray that as weapons form against us that they will not prosper. Lord, we ask that You suit us up in Your armor and help us to stand against the devils schemes. Cover us and our families. Protect us from the evil lurking in this world. Continue to heal those who are ill and/or recovering. Comfort those who are grieving and give them peace today. In Jesus name we pray, amen.

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