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James 1: 9 -11
9The brother in humble circumstances ought to take pride in his
high position. 10But the one who is rich should take pride in his
low position, because he will pass away like a wild flower. 11For
the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its
blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the
rich man will fade away even while he goes about his
business.
Q: Why is there a "reversal of position"? what is the context
that James is saying this from? what is this telling us?
verse 9 : Brother in Humble circumstances -> High Position
verse 10: The one who is Rich -> Low Position
Matthew 23:11
11The greatest among you will be your servant. 12For whoever exalts
himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be
exalted.
**addition --- (From Matthew Henry's commentary of the
Bible)
No condition of life is such as to hinder rejoicing in God. Those
of low degree may rejoice, if they are exalted to be rich in faith
and heirs of the kingdom of God; and the rich may rejoice in
humbling providences, that lead to a humble and lowly disposition
of mind. Worldly wealth is a withering thing. Then, let him that is
rich rejoice in the grace of God, which makes and keeps him humble;
and in the trials and exercises which teach him to seek happiness
in and from God, not from perishing enjoyments.
**Personal understanding
Simply put: those that are in humble circumstances should not look
and focus on their circumatances, but rejoice in the Lord, in doing
so, show forth the richness of their faith in God.
those who are wealthy, should not boast about their riches, but
instead rejoice in the providence of God.
Jeremiah 9:23-24
23 This is what the LORD says:
"Let not the wise man boast of his wisdom
or the strong man boast of his strength
or the rich man boast of his riches,
24 but let him who boasts boast about this:
that he understands and knows me,
that I am the LORD, who exercises kindness,
justice and righteousness on earth,
for in these I delight,"
declares the LORD.
