The Perspective of Rich and Poor

James 1:9–11
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Having been given the resources needed to deal with the trials of life we are introduced to two specific examples of trials:

1. The test of poverty (v. 9). James speaks first of the man of “low  degree”. This is not refer­ring to spiritual condition but to earthly status. A Christian living in humble circumstances needs to rise above this and rejoice in his “high estate” which has all kinds of heavenly treasures at his disposal. He has “an inheritance incorruptible, undefiled and that fadeth not away.” James reminds us that worldly possessions are like the bloom of a plant that fades away after it displays its beauty. In summary the poor man must not allow his poverty to depress him but to rejoice in his spiritual privileges and glory in the fact that he is rich in the things that really count.
2. The test of prosperity (verses 10-11). The Christian who possesses all kinds of earthly wealth must not find his joy and satisfaction in his possession of worldly goods. All things of this world are perishable and true wealth con­sists only of things  that are eternal. Money tends to produce a false sense of security and the rich therefore especially need to be remin­ded of the uncertainty of life. The rich man on the other hand must recognize that his wealth can be his downfall and that all earthly things are very temporary.

Application

 

I need to review my goals in this life as I think in terms of eternities’ values? Am I building up treasures on earth or in heaven.

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