SUNDAY November 24, 2019

Rich in Faith

Listen, my beloved brethren: Has God not chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him? But you have dishonored the poor man. Do not the rich oppress you and drag you into the courts? Do they not blaspheme that noble name by which you are called?
James 2:5-7

James told Christians to really listen to his exhortation. God was not a respecter of persons! God has chosen the poor of this world. He loves the poor and has promised to give them an inheritance!

They may have no money, but James knew they were rich in faith––they had an eternal inheritance! This reminds me of the Sermon on the Mount, when Jesus taught His disciples: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3). Jesus spoke of those who were spiritually bankrupt, but as they repented of their sins and accepted Him as their Savior, they became incredibly rich eternally. The prophet Isaiah felt unworthy in the presence of a holy God. He knew how wretched he was. He became poor in spirit, and, in humility, declared: “Woe is me, for I am undone! Because I am a man of unclean lips…” (Isaiah 6:5).

James shared that the Gospel of Jesus Christ was for anyone who wanted to accept it, whether poor or rich. There are some Christians who judge people from outward appearances or get into titles: such as, reverend, pastor, rabbi or master. Yet we need to treat people equally.

I believe the Church needs to meet the needs of the community, not just cater to the rich and prominent. Christians cannot treat those who are rich like gold and the poor like castoffs. Jesus is our example. He did not have much materially in this world; in fact, He became poor so that we could become rich (2 Corinthians 8:9). Christians have become rich in the grace of God––more than millionaires in this world––amazing!

Do you dishonor the poor in the body of Christ? Are you guilty of being a respecter of persons by only catering to the rich? Think about it.

For there is no partiality with God.
~Romans 2:11~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!