12/10/2013 - WHERE MANY STUMBLE

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Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned. Behold, the Judge is standing at the door!

James 5:9

There is so much injustice being committed in this world, but that should draw us closer to the Lord – who is righteous – instead of turning us away from Him. Some people prefer political philosophies thinking that this will provide them with a better life but this is not the way to go. The best thing we can do is get closer to the Lord through His Word, with prayer and supplication (Philippians 4:6).

James speaks to those who benefited from the system that governs the world, telling them to weep and wail for the miseries what would come upon them. He who becomes rich with the help of the Lord shall rejoice, because the gifts given by Him add no sorrow (Proverbs 10:22). On the other hand, the misfortunes of those who thrive without divine help will not be real. So, the best thing to do will always be to serve God with what He gives us.

The riches attained with the help of the enemy are corrupted; they are worth nothing (James 5:2). Whatever could give them an air of righteousness was moth-eaten; besides, gold and silver were corroded and their corrosion will be a witness of how the assets were purchased and will eat their flesh like fire; they heaped up treasures in the last days of suffering and despair (verse 3).

He who prospered at the expense of the wages kept back by fraud will see that such wages cry out. Undoubtedly, the cries of those who were wronged have reached the Lord’s ears (verse 4). Why do evil in order to live lavishly? Despite knowing how fleeting pleasures are, many live their lives revolving around them. The way these people act is tantamount to killing a just person without resistance. However, by the mercy of God, there is still time for them to mend their ways, or sooner or later they will go to perdition.

God’s servants must be patient, because nothing is hidden from the eyes of the Lord. The Most High will reward those who have not attained much due to other people’s greed (Matthew 6:6). His children will not get carried away by bad examples; actually, when the others bow to the devil and accept his offers, the Almighty’s servants say “no” to any devilish offer.

Besides patience, it is necessary to strengthen the heart, preparing for the coming of the Lord, which is at hand (James 5:8), when He will reward everyone according to their doings. He who has a slack hand will receive his punishment (Proverbs 10:4), but those who have fulfilled the divine precepts shall reign forever and ever. Do not grumble against your brother and do not judge him. Endure any damage and then you will see that it is worth waiting for the righteous judge, who is standing at the door.

In Christ with Love,

R. R. Soares