You Can't Take It With You (James 5:1-6)

Today’s scripture: James 5:1-6

Our society seems to revere the rich and famous. We read about their escapades in the latest tabloid. We stand in awe of their homes, cars, and jewels. Even “mainstream” media seems obsessed with them. I can’t count how often the newsfeeds I often read focus on some celebrity’s multi-million dollar wedding or some star’s latest brush with the law.

Some day, however, all the houses, cars, and jewels will mean nothing. The exotic vacations. The wild parties.

None of it will matter.

When Jesus Christ returns to set up the new heaven and the new earth, this world and all that’s in it will be no more (see Revelation 21:1).

The only thing that will matter then is whether or not a person has put her faith in Christ. Riches themselves isn’t really the issue. Commitment to Christ is. God doesn’t condemn riches. But if you’ve been blessed with money, use what you’ve been blessed with to serve others. Provide for the “least of these” (Matthew 25:35-40).

Don’t live wantonly, focusing only on your money and what it can do for you. Don’t risk the “upcoming misery” of eternity separated from God … because you’ll also be separated from your riches.

You really can’t take it with you.