Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower. 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.
James 1:9-11
Dear HBIC Family,
Years ago, a friend reminded me that the two things that change us the most are the books we read, and the people we meet. I think that’s mostly true. Although now, some might cite the movies they watch, music they listen to, or places they go as other direct influences on who they are and have become. I have found, though, that while our second-most common influence can vary (books, movies, music, places, etc.), the people we meet and “do life with” are often our primary influence.
Our early caregivers help get our feet on the ground. Our siblings and cousins and childhood friends help us find our way in the world. As we grow, the people who spur our growth, and who grow alongside with us, leave their mark too. I’m grateful for (and try to remember in prayer) the people who have poured so much into me. In our increasingly individualistic world, it’s a blessing to stop. It is a blessing to give thanks for and show appreciation to the many people who have helped us become who we are.
The Epistle of James, our text for the next few months, serves as a testament of the impact of Jesus on James, his brother. It gives a record of the Holy Spirit’s transforming power on unbelieving James, who becomes one of the most important leaders in the early Church. James, who doubted Jesus was Messiah, now positions himself as a servant of Jesus, surrendered to Jesus’s will and committed to living and working for God’s kingdom. It is a transformation made possible by the Spirit and Jesus’ intentional journeying with James.
Throughout the book of James, we hear from James’ heart, but the voice of Jesus is louder. What James shares for us here is what Jesus taught, lived, and commanded from all those who follow him. This is why scholar K.A. Ellis says that to best understand James, one must read it alongside Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. It’s not just the similar subject matter, it’s how James is quickly able to pivot from topic to topic.
This week, James continues to challenge us to trust God and his word, and not the snares of this world. His focus for us this week is the snare of wealth and how it can so easily deceive us. As you prepare for this week’s services, I would like to invite you to read and meditate on James and Jesus’ teaching on trusting God as found in both Matthew 6:25-34 and James 1:9-11. As you reflect, I would like to ask you to focus on the following questions:
How does God’s past provision for you help you when you worry?
How has working for the kingdom of God enhanced your understanding of God?
How have God’s blessings distracted you from what God desires to do in and through you?
Where is God calling you to surrender today?
How is God calling you to better steward all you have been blessed with?
One of my life’s great blessings is having immediate family on the other side of the world. Technology helps us stay connected, and our relationships remind us that we are one family together. I am also blessed with more perspective than I would be privy to living here in the United States. They have gifted me a more global perspective on faith and following Christ, and also with life in general.
When I think about the snares of wealth today, it is with family around the world in mind. While I don’t mistake myself for being wealthy, I am reminded of how my everyday living betrays the fact that wealth is subjective. I am also reminded of the words of Jesus in Matthew, and James in the text above. God provides, we should not worry. Seek first God’s kingdom. Worship God the giver of all good things, and not the gifts we have. And lastly, trust God. Trust God in all things.
God bless you all.
Love in Christ,
Pastor Hank