Rich and poor alike benefit from trials.
Lessons from the book of James
Let the lowly brother boast in his exaltation, and the rich in his humiliation… (James 1:9-10 ESV)
A Christian who is poor can boast of the fact that he is an heir of the kingdom of God. He will, in fact, be “rich” for all of eternity.
Listen, my beloved brothers, has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to those who love him? (James 2:5 ESV)
The rich, after going through trials of various kinds and learning to depend on God rather than earthly riches, can also boast. When the rich become free from the “….cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches and the desires for other things …” (Mark 4:19 ESV) they too can boast of having the privilege of being identified with Christ.
The Apostle Paul clearly understood this principle. In Philippians he says, “…. for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:11-13 ESV)
Check out “Whoever Believes….”
