The book of James looks a bit like the Old Testament book of Proverbs dressed up in New Testament clothes. Its consistent focus on practical action in the life of faith is reminiscent of the Wisdom Literature in the Old Testament, encouraging God's people to act like God's people. The pages of James are filled with direct commands to pursue a life of holiness, and to remain consistent in the face of great trials and tribulations.
It is here we resume our study of James, diving deeper this Sunday into James 1:9-11. In three simple verses, the Church is invited to examine the trial of poverty and wealth in the life of a believer. James speaks dignity over those who have little, while simultaneously encouraging humility in those who have much. It is a wonderfully rich text, bringing both conviction and perspective on how faith should inform material wealth. It breaks barriers between poor and rich; uniting believers in Christ and grounding the church in the gift of contentment. It properly situates hope to be found in Christ alone, and not in fleeting material things which have no eternal significance. It is a beautiful reminder and a much-needed exhortation for us as believers to know we have enough because we have Christ. My prayers are with you this week and I hope to see you on Sunday!
