Scripture

“Listen, my beloved brothers and sisters.  Has not God chosen the poor in the world to be rich in faith and to be heirs of the kingdom that he has promised to those who love him?” James 2:5

Reflections

If you want to see deep and sincere faith, look to the poor.

The United States is a wealthy country.  Affluence can be a blessing.  It can also be a curse.  Many who are materially wealthy are spiritually poor.  They can find it easy to go about their lives oblivious to God.  They can be tempted to live with the illusion that they are “self made” people.  They deserve everything they have because they have worked hard.  But who gave them the health to live a productive life?  Who placed them within a context in which they were able to live affluently?  Who gave them the gifts and abilities to “be successful”?

In contrast, many who are materially poor are spiritually wealthy.  In their poverty, they are often keenly aware of their dependence upon God.  God is constantly on their minds.  They look to Him to provide.  They are grateful to Him for the good things that come their way.

God looks for all people to trust in him.  The faithful poor display great trust.  Thus, they are worthy of great honor—not just because of their poverty but because of their faith.  We cherish them.  We care for their well-being in every way—even as we ourselves would like to be cared for.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for the example of the faithful poor.  Help me to be mindful of all people, not just myself.  Deepen my faith through the power of your Spirit that I might trust in You.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: James 2:1-7

Details

If you would like to be removed from this, or, know of someone who would like to receive these daily Words of Encouragement, email the mobile phone number to Becky@dojoy.org. Those being added to the list need to specify whether the text should be received at 6 AM or Noon.