James 5:1-6 - Misusing the gifts God has given us

<p>James’ concluding remarks center on sharing—sharing one’s possessions (1-6), sharing with patience (7-12), and sharing in prayer (13-20).</p><p>The attack begun in the concluding section of chapter 4 is carried into chapter 5 but with greater concentration and condemnation. The rich are denounced. James appears to have included all rich people, both believers (cf. 1:10) and unbelievers (cf. 2:6). There is no plea for reform, only a grim warning that hoarded wealth brings dismay, ends up rotting away, and results in condemnation.</p><p>This also speaks to the treatment of employers and employees. In the spirit of the OT prophets, James pronounces judgment on employers who treat their employees unjustly (Is 3:14, 15; 10:2). God will judge those who oppress the poor (Ezek 18:12-13).</p><p><strong>KEY TAKEAWAYS:</strong></p><ul><li>The Bible does not discourage the acquiring of wealth. But what the Bible does condemn is acquiring wealth by illegal means or for illegal purposes.</li><li>It is bad enough to gain wealth in a sinful way, but to use that wealth in sinful ways just makes the sin greater</li><li>Ultimately, none of our hardships can vanquish us. Whatever needs we face, we can expect the Lord of Hosts to be our Helper and Source of strength.</li></ul><p>For more information about this show, includes additional notes and details, please visit the show page <a href="https://seekingourgod.com/james-51-6-misusing-the-gifts-god-has-given-us/" target="_blank">here </a>or visit our home page at <a href="https://www.seekingourgod.com" target="_blank">SeekingourGod.com</a></p><p>Music</p><ul><li>Life of Riley by Kevin MacLeod</li><li>Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3976-life-of-riley</li><li>License: <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/</a></li></ul>