Living with Humility and an Eternal Perspective
Summary
### Summary
Today, we delved into the book of James, focusing on the latter part of chapter 4 and the beginning of chapter 5. James, the half-brother of Jesus, offers practical wisdom for living out the message of Jesus. He challenges us to not just hear the word but to live it out. James addresses two groups: the competent and the wealthy, and he emphasizes that we all fall into these categories in some way.
James reminds us of the fleeting nature of life, comparing it to a mist that appears briefly and then vanishes. This imagery serves to humble us and make us aware of our limitations. He stresses the importance of living with humility, recognizing that our plans are subject to God's will. James also encourages us to think in terms of eternity rather than just the present moment. This eternal perspective should influence how we live, prioritize, and use our resources.
James warns against arrogance and self-reliance, urging us to acknowledge our dependence on God. He also speaks against hoarding wealth and living in self-indulgence, reminding us that our resources are meant to be stewarded for God's purposes. The call is to live open-handedly, generously, and with a sense of immediacy, doing good now rather than postponing it.
In essence, James calls us to live lives characterized by humility, an eternal perspective, and immediate action. This way of living not only honors God but also impacts the world around us, making our fleeting lives meaningful and significant in the light of eternity.
### Key Takeaways
1. Life is Fleeting and Fragile: James compares our lives to a mist that appears for a moment and then vanishes. This imagery serves to remind us of the brevity and fragility of life, urging us to live with a sense of urgency and purpose. Recognizing our limitations should lead us to depend more on God and less on our own plans. [06:11]
2. Humility is Essential: True humility acknowledges that everything we have and achieve is by God's grace. James warns against the arrogance of self-reliance and encourages us to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." This mindset shifts our focus from self-sufficiency to divine dependence. [15:11]
3. Eternal Perspective: James urges us to think beyond the immediate and consider eternity. Our lives are but a small part of a much larger eternal story. This perspective should influence our priorities, leading us to invest in what truly lasts: the Word of God and the souls of people. [18:09]
4. Generosity Over Hoarding: James condemns hoarding and self-indulgence, reminding us that our resources are not just for our consumption but for God's purposes. Living generously and open-handedly reflects our trust in God and our understanding that we are stewards of His blessings. [25:02]
5. Immediate Obedience: Delayed obedience is disobedience. James emphasizes the importance of acting on what we know to be right without delay. This immediacy in doing good reflects our understanding that life is short and that we are not guaranteed tomorrow. [22:15]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:13] - Introduction to James
[02:25] - Personal Confession and Humor
[03:42] - The Competent and the Wealthy
[04:56] - Addressing the Audience
[06:11] - Life is a Mist
[08:59] - Fleeting, Forgettable, and Fragile
[10:33] - Personal Story of Loss
[12:03] - Grass in the Field Analogy
[13:41] - Humility and Dependence on God
[15:11] - The Importance of Humility
[16:36] - Eternal Perspective
[18:09] - Living in Light of Eternity
[19:24] - YOLO vs. YALF
[20:56] - Immediacy in Obedience
[22:15] - Delayed Obedience is Disobedience
[23:47] - Addressing the Wealthy
[25:02] - Hoarding vs. Generosity
[26:18] - Self-Indulgence
[27:34] - Sufficient vs. Extravagant Living
[28:54] - Injustice and Generosity
[30:04] - Stewardship of Resources
[31:20] - Priority, Percentage, and Progressive Giving
[32:43] - Progressive Giving and Maturity
[34:03] - Living with Humility and Eternity in Mind
[35:29] - Prayer and Commitment
[36:37] - Invitation to Start or Restart a Relationship with God
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. James 4:13-17 (NIV)
> Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil. If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn't do it, it is sin for them.
2. James 5:1-6 (NIV)
> Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming on you. Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes. Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days. Look! The wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty. You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter.
### Observation Questions
1. What metaphor does James use to describe the brevity of life in James 4:14? How does this imagery help us understand our limitations? [06:11]
2. According to James 4:15, what should our attitude be when making plans for the future? [06:11]
3. In James 5:1-3, what are the consequences mentioned for those who hoard wealth? [25:02]
4. How does James describe the treatment of workers by the wealthy in James 5:4? What does this reveal about the priorities of the wealthy? [28:54]
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does James emphasize the fleeting nature of life by comparing it to a mist? How should this perspective influence our daily decisions and priorities? [06:11]
2. What does it mean to live with humility according to James 4:15? How does this contrast with self-reliance and arrogance? [15:11]
3. How does having an eternal perspective, as discussed in the sermon, change the way we view our resources and actions? [18:09]
4. What is the significance of immediate obedience in the context of James 4:17? How does delayed obedience equate to disobedience? [22:15]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent decision you made. Did you consider God's will in that decision? How can you incorporate the mindset of "If it is the Lord's will" in your future plans? [06:11]
2. Think about an area in your life where you might be relying too much on your own abilities. How can you practice humility and acknowledge your dependence on God in that area? [15:11]
3. How does the concept of living with an eternal perspective challenge your current priorities? What changes can you make to invest more in what truly lasts: the Word of God and the souls of people? [18:09]
4. Are there resources or wealth that you are currently hoarding or using for self-indulgence? How can you shift towards a more generous and open-handed approach to your possessions? [25:02]
5. Identify a good deed or act of obedience that you have been postponing. What steps can you take this week to act on it immediately? [22:15]
6. How can you ensure that your financial decisions reflect a balance between sufficient living and extravagant giving? What practical steps can you take to adjust your spending, saving, and giving habits? [27:34]
7. Consider someone in your life who might be in need of generosity or support. How can you be a steward of God's blessings and extend help to them this week? [30:04]
Devotional
Day 1: Life is a Mist
Life is fleeting and fragile, much like a mist that appears for a moment and then vanishes. This imagery serves to remind us of the brevity and fragility of life, urging us to live with a sense of urgency and purpose. Recognizing our limitations should lead us to depend more on God and less on our own plans. James emphasizes that our lives are not guaranteed, and we should live each day with the awareness that it could be our last. This perspective should drive us to make the most of every opportunity to do good and to live in a way that honors God. [06:11]
James 4:14 (ESV): "Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes."
Reflection: How can you live today with a sense of urgency and purpose, knowing that life is fleeting?
Day 2: Humility and Dependence on God
True humility acknowledges that everything we have and achieve is by God's grace. James warns against the arrogance of self-reliance and encourages us to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." This mindset shifts our focus from self-sufficiency to divine dependence. By recognizing that our plans are subject to God's will, we cultivate a heart of humility and trust in His sovereignty. This humility not only honors God but also frees us from the burden of trying to control every aspect of our lives. [15:11]
James 4:15-16 (ESV): "Instead you ought to say, 'If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.' As it is, you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to shift from self-reliance to dependence on God?
Day 3: Living with an Eternal Perspective
James urges us to think beyond the immediate and consider eternity. Our lives are but a small part of a much larger eternal story. This perspective should influence our priorities, leading us to invest in what truly lasts: the Word of God and the souls of people. By focusing on eternal values, we can make decisions that have lasting significance and impact. This eternal perspective helps us to see beyond the temporary pleasures and challenges of this world and to live in a way that aligns with God's eternal purposes. [18:09]
2 Corinthians 4:18 (ESV): "As we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal."
Reflection: How can you adjust your priorities to reflect an eternal perspective in your daily life?
Day 4: Generosity Over Hoarding
James condemns hoarding and self-indulgence, reminding us that our resources are not just for our consumption but for God's purposes. Living generously and open-handedly reflects our trust in God and our understanding that we are stewards of His blessings. By sharing our resources with others, we demonstrate God's love and provision. This generosity not only blesses others but also brings joy and fulfillment to our own lives. It is a tangible expression of our faith and trust in God's ability to provide for our needs. [25:02]
1 Timothy 6:17-19 (ESV): "As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life."
Reflection: What steps can you take today to live more generously and open-handedly with your resources?
Day 5: Immediate Obedience
Delayed obedience is disobedience. James emphasizes the importance of acting on what we know to be right without delay. This immediacy in doing good reflects our understanding that life is short and that we are not guaranteed tomorrow. By responding promptly to God's leading, we demonstrate our trust in His timing and our commitment to His will. Immediate obedience not only honors God but also allows us to experience the blessings and opportunities that come from following His guidance. [22:15]
James 4:17 (ESV): "So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin."
Reflection: What is one area where you need to practice immediate obedience to God's leading today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Jesus changed lives and he keeps changing lives. And I love that. The book of James is one of the most practical books in all of the Bible. Some people call it the Proverbs of the New Testament. And one of the themes that I think is so important in this book is it's written to those Christians, these new followers of Jesus, the first church. And it's so practical and it's so helpful. But one of the things he asks that I think is so pertinent to all of us is what good does it do a person to hear the message of Jesus, but not to do it?" (30 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "James is saying, no matter how good of a plan you have, if you have a plan that depends on you, your plan is rooted in arrogance. You don't control tomorrow. The reason he's setting this up is because we don't control tomorrow. All we can control is what's happening right here and right now. So he's going to give us a challenge, an admonition for how to live this moment right here, right now to the fullest." (26 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "If all you think about in your life is the little tiny bit of red, this is a really terrible way to think about your life. What James wants us to understand is there is this little part of our life, but the real truth is there's way more to this life than this life. That this life isn't all that there is, but this life is really the beginning of all the years of eternity." (27 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Delayed obedience is disobedience. And I think for a lot of us, we think to ourselves, if I can just like hold on, then I'll be generous later. If I can just build a bigger nest egg, then I'll be generous later. If I can just have a huge 401k, and if I could just have a lot of money in my retirement, then when I die, I'll leave a portion of what I have to the work of God. And what James wants us to understand is we are not guaranteed tomorrow. So we've got to live now as if now is all we've got because now." (30 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Why did God give you the money that's in your bank account? Why did God give you the ability to earn money? Why did God give you what he's given you? You ready for the answer? It's not all for you. It is to steward. What is a steward? It's someone who watches over something that belongs to somebody else. And you need to understand, scripture says, the book of Psalms multiple times says, the earth is the Lord. Everything in the world is God's, but he entrusts to us to steward what we have." (29 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "I think one of the signs of maturity is when you start to realize that you might know a lot, you might have a lot of degrees behind your name. You might've studied at the most prestigious universities on the face of the planet, but no matter how studied you are, no matter how smart you are, no matter how well read you are, there is a limit to our knowledge. Like there is something freeing about saying, I don't really know how that goes. I don't really have it all figured out." (30 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Our lives are fleeting. They're here for a moment and then they're gone. I don't know if you've ever had a moment where you've sat in the funeral of a loved one, particularly someone who died way too young from your perspective. And it's like you stare eternity in the face. My first memory of this wasn't a family member. It was my best friend from middle school's younger brother. Well, when I was 18 or so, his younger brother was 16. And early, early in the morning, he'd spent the whole night out. He was riding a little dirt bike sized motorcycle and he came over the hill at an intersection and didn't see, kind of caught a little bit of air. And there was a semi truck parked literally on the other side, just outside of his visibility. And he died on impact." (50 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "David in the book of Psalms said this. He said, teach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Hold here for just a moment. One of my favorite illustrations I've ever seen. I wish I came up with this, but I saw a pastor years ago come up with it. It's this simple idea of seeing our lives differently. And the funny thing is, I want you to look at this rope, and I want you to look at this red section, and I want you to imagine that this red section represents the course of our lives." (28 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The final thought in this is that three words that should characterize who we are is humility, eternity, and then immediacy. Kind of setting this up with the eternity thought. Immediacy means don't put off till tomorrow what you are supposed to do today. Because according to James, if our life is but a mist, we don't even know if we'll have tomorrow. Here and do it now." (20 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "His point is there is a time for you and me to grow up. Part of following Jesus is realizing that this life isn't all that there is to this life. So I'm going to approach this life with a different sense of humility. I'm going to live this life realizing that it's fragile and it's fleeting and it's hard. But I'm going to live this life realizing that it's fragile and it's forgettable. So when I live in light of eternity, when I'm not self-indulgent, when it's not all about me, when I realize that in comparison to eternity, I have this little gap called life, I'm going to prioritize the word of God and the souls of other people." (-800 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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