November 20, 2023 - James 5

Reading James 5, two passages come quickly to mind. “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth . . . but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven . . . For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:19-21) & “Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’” (Acts 20:35). Juxtaposed to these verses we might add Paul’s warning: “For the love of money is the root of all of evil” (1 Timothy 6:10). As many have noted, riches, in and off themselves are not evil; if so, how could the Bible so strongly commend Job and his wealth, as just one example? Clearly, the concern here is that we will so greedily pursue the things of the world that we fail to see eternal truths and step on others to get what we want. Rather, with Paul, we should say, “I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:11-13).

Be still, my soul; thy God doth undertake

to guide the future as He has the past.

Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake;

all now mysterious shall be bright at last.

Be still, my soul; the waves and winds still know

His voice who ruled them while He dwelt below. --Kathrina von Schlegel (1855)