Congratulations on day 10 of our James Bible Study! You’re doing this and I pray you’ve been blessed by the study.
Today, focus on unpacking the gifts in verses 11-12. What do you think of what James has said so far about the rich and the poor? What stands out to you? What questions does it leave you with?
For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business.
12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.
I do believe that our desire to be comfortable and not have worry in our lives is our natural creation born desire for Heaven and relationship with the Lord. But it can be so easily confused in this world. We can put that focus on the wrong things, like the envy and desire to be rich and have luxury items that would make our life here more comfortable.
When I remind myself that this life is temporary and that Jesus has gone to prepare a place I cannot even imagine, it slaps my perspective back to where it should be. I need to be looking UP for God’s instructions, instead of looking side to side to see what my brother and sister received as gifts and want what they have. Like a horse with blinders on, we need to be laser focused on our Creator and await His instructions.
Is it hard for you to watch others receive things you long for? We can be envious of the divine blessings God pours out onto others. May we be thankful for the gifts we have and the ones to come.
Homework:
Dig into the Greek today. Read other bible versions of the verses. Does something stand out or speak directly to your heart?
Add verse 3 to your memorizing. Write out verses 1-3 three times. Say it out loud at least 5x. How is your memorizing going? Are you getting it? Or struggling?
Blessings,
