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Sunday, February 9th

James 4:13-17, 5:1-6, 5:7-11

How do we choose what is most valuable, over what is most costly? 

James was writing to early Jewish followers of Jesus who had been persecuted and scattered across the Roman Empire. They were driven out by their own people, and were despised and often taken advantage of by the Gentile folks around them. Life was hard, and it was tempting to seek assurance and security in wealth. James' wisdom reminds us that financial wealth promises only an illusion of security, and a false sense of control.

More seriously, the temptations around money can subtly deflect us from the work God is doing in our lives, and his call to partner with him in blessing the world. This can lead us to act unjustly toward those who are most vulnerable to us, and can tempt us to treat people as tools for our use, or obstacles to our own gain. 

James is speaking words of wisdom and encouragement into a difficult situation. He reminds us of the uncertainty of riches; and the need for Jesus followers to submit their wealth, and even their capacity to earn, to the Lord's will. 

We may say that Jesus is Lord, yet, there are few things that so effortlessly displace Christ from the throne of our lives than money. Because of this, a healthy relationship to wealth also demands our rigorous honesty, and complete submission.

"Wherever your treasure is your heart will be there too."

- Matthew 6

Want to read a little deeper? Matt 6:19-21, 6:28-34, and 24:9-13

Want to read ahead for next week? "Integrity; the Heart of Wisdom"; James 3:13-18, 4:1-10, & 5:19-20, and Matt 5:3-11, 6:24, & 18:15

Want to be challenged around money and wealth? Ask Jesus each day what he may be trying to teach you especially about money, or to change in your attitude and behaviour toward wealth. 

Listen, with trust for what he is saying, because, "the Lord is full of compassion and mercy." - James 5:11

~ Pastor Joe