Come [quickly] now, you rich [who lack true faith and hoard and misuse your resources], weep and howl over the miseries [the woes, the judgments] that are coming upon you. Your wealth has rotted and is ruined and your [fine] clothes have become moth-eaten. Your gold and silver are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will consume your flesh like fire. You have stored up your treasure in the last days [when it will do you no good]. Look! The wages that you have [fraudulently] withheld from the laborers who have mowed your fields are crying out [against you for vengeance]; and the cries of the harvesters have come to the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth. [1 Sam 1:3] On the earth you have lived luxuriously and abandoned yourselves to soft living and led a life of wanton pleasure [self-indulgence, self-gratification]; you have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter. You have condemned and have put to death the righteous man; he offers you no resistance. So wait patiently, brothers and sisters, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits [expectantly] for the precious harvest from the land, being patient about it, until it receives the early and late rains. You too, be patient; strengthen your hearts [keep them energized and firmly committed to God], because the coming of the Lord is near. Do not complain against one another, believers, so that you will not be judged [for it]. Look! The Judge is standing right at the door. As an example, brothers and sisters, of suffering and patience, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord [as His messengers and representatives]. You know we call those blessed [happy, spiritually prosperous, favored by God] who were steadfast and endured [difficult circumstances]. You have heard of the patient endurance of Job and you have seen the Lord’s outcome [how He richly blessed Job]. The Lord is full of compassion and is merciful. [Job 1:21, 22; 42:10; Ps 111:4] But above all, my fellow believers, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath; but let your yes be [a truthful] yes, and your no be [a truthful] no, so that you may not fall under judgment. [Matt 5:34-37]
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5 Days
Our Christian faith is good for business because in God's Word he encourages honesty, service, strong work ethic, caring for others, and respect for authority.
The book of James is beloved for how practical it is in our lives and work. In each day of this five-day plan, you’ll read a chapter of James as well as a short devotional that will focus on a few key verses that are particularly relevant to busy Christian professionals.
This five-day reading plan explores the book of James through Heather Hair's adapted commentary originally written by Christian Classic author Matthew Henry. Audio readings of each chapter are also provided by Heather Hair. Unpack the truths in this powerful book!
Written by Jesus’ brother, the book of James is a practical guide to living a Christ-centered life. James encourages his readers to remain steadfast in a trial, tame the tongue, and humble themselves before the Lord. The practicality of the letter reminds us that true faith is seen in a life marked by faithful works.
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