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And now, you rich people, listen to me! Weep and wail over the miseries that are coming upon you! Your riches have rotted away, and your clothes have been eaten by moths. Your gold and silver are covered with rust, and this rust will be a witness against you and will eat up your flesh like fire.

You have piled up riches in these last days. You have not paid any wages to the men who work in your fields. Listen to their complaints. The cries of those that gather your crops, have reached the ears of God.

Your life here on earth has been full of luxury and pleasure. You have made yourself fat for the day of slaughter. You have condemned and murdered innocent people, and they do not resist you.

 

When I first read these verses, I thought, whoa James, who are you talking to? Are you talking to me?

After reading the proceeding verses, James was talking to the rich oppressors. The people of that time that had an overabundance of wealth. They hoarded their riches; they didn’t thank God for all they had or recognized where it came from. They didn’t pay their workers a fair wage. They lived in luxury and pleasure. Never a thought to helping the poor and needy people of that time.

God expects us to be good stewards of all He has given us. We have a responsibility to make a difference to those around us. Wealth is a gift from God to be used for His glory and to bless others. Look around, there are so many opportunities to help out in so many ways. Ask God to show you where He wants you to share the blessings He has given to you.

Gracious Father, thank you for all that you have given us. Help us to be good stewards of all that we have and to share with people in need. In Jesus name, amen

Jeanne Palumbo

jeannelpalumbo@gmail.com

 

Prayer Concern: Give your people generous heart to help where we see a need.