Scripture: James 5: 1-3
Come now, you rich, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you!2 Your riches [a]are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. 3 Your gold and silver are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have heaped up treasure in the last days.
Scripture Commentary:
James is telling us why we are so concerned about what we’ve accumulated here on earth. You can’t you take the “treasure” – the clothes, money, cars, houses, etc – with you when your time on earth is done.
What good will your earthly treasure do you in heaven or hell?
We see the treasures of past pharaohs and kings. They weren’t able to take it with them – it’s still here! So what does it really mean to be rich or poor? What have you done with what God has given you? Did you help others or did you keep everything for yourself?
Jesus tells us that everything is in the heavenly kingdom.
Your earthly treasure is not required. James proclaims the worthlessness of riches, not the worthiness of the rich. Therefore, spend your time spreading the Gospel of love and forgiveness.
Read the Entire Chapter of the Scripture Referenced:
Read Other Commentary from the Book of James: