James 1:9-11 “Let the lowly brother glory in his exaltation, but the rich in his humiliation, because as a flower of the field he will pass away. For no sooner has the sun risen with a burning heat than it withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beautiful appearance perishes. So the rich man also will fade away in his pursuits.”

James reminds us of a pragmatic truth, a materially poor brother is less tempted to find his security in money because he doesn’t have any to hope in. His position causes him to look for assistance outside himself. The humility needed to acknowledge ones’ need for help and to seek it from God comes more natural to him as life has made him well practiced.

On the other hand, the rich person is tempted to lean on his savings and trust in his earning potential instead of truly resting in God’s provision. Money for the rich is often elevated to a place of worship, used outside of God’s intended purposes and held over the heads of those in need. While mammon can prop a man up for a season, it cannot satisfy or save a soul.

One day soon, that false god whose reliable persona lures so many, will wither like winter rye in the summer heat and all who idolized it will wilt. Many, once proud and wealthy, will kneel in the ashes of their god, filled with acute humiliation. Next to them the poor, who looked to Jesus, will stand exalting in the Hope of Glory.

Wake us up, Lord. Help us trust you more and steward your resources in line with your desires. Help us love, serve and learn from the poor. Grant us Heaven’s perspective on how to live truly Well Off.

- Micah McElveen