Now Listen!

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Scripture: James 5:1-6 (NIV)

Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming on you. 2 Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes. 3 Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days. 4 Look! The wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty. 5 You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter.  6 You have condemned and murdered the innocent one, who was not opposing you.

Devotion:

The passage from James 5 is a stern warning to the rich who oppress the poor and exploit their labor. James does not mince words; he tells them that their wealth will be worthless, their luxury will turn into misery, and their injustice will bring God's judgment.

What can we learn from this passage? First, we must engage in deep self-examination. We need to scrutinize our hearts and attitudes toward money and possessions. Are we hoarding or sharing? Are we generous or greedy? Are we trusting in God or our bank accounts? James reminds us that everything we have belongs to God, and we are only stewards of his gifts.

Second, we must be mindful of how we treat others, especially those less fortunate than us. Are we paying fair wages to our employees? Are we respecting the dignity and rights of the poor? Are we speaking up for the oppressed and the marginalized? James tells us that God hears the cries of the exploited and the abused, and he will hold us accountable for our actions.

Third, we need to live in the light of eternity. We should not be deceived by the temporary pleasures of this world. Are we first seeking God's kingdom and righteousness? Are we storing up treasures in heaven or on earth? Are we ready to face the Lord when he returns? James warns us that the day of reckoning is near, and we should be inspired to prioritize our spiritual life and be prepared to meet our Maker.

Let us heed James's message and repent of any sin or selfishness in our lives. Let us use our resources wisely and generously for God's glory and the good of others. And let us live in hope and anticipation of the coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Prayer:

            Lord, this week has been full of hard words about the evils of wealth. Help us be aware that you love the wealthy as much as the poor. However, we know you protect those less fortunate because you realize they face many difficulties in this life. Prepare us to serve you and always follow your call and leading. Let us recognize that we are saved by your grace and not through any effort of our own. Realizing this, let us live to bring glory to your name. Amen.

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