James 5:5-6 Contemporary English Version
The Bible declares that God is owner of the earth, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it. Man is the crown jewel of His creation and desires to possess material wealth. Having wealth is not forbidden; however, we are commanded to have no other gods before Him. Since everything we have belongs to God, He does expect His children to be responsible stewards of how wealth is used because “no man can serve two masters.” Either we use wealth to honor God and serve others or selfishly store it up, making it an idol that is treasured over God.
To show the seriousness of misusing wealth, Jesus spoke to the unrighteous rich: “But woe (judgment is coming) to you who are rich [and place your faith in possessions while remaining spiritually impoverished], for you are [already] receiving your comfort in full [and there is nothing left to be awarded to you]” (Luke 6:24 AMP). No matter what your spiritual condition is or how little or great your wealth is, whether you acknowledge it or not, you do need the Lord. He is our Creator and Providence; we are called by Him to fulfill His purpose in our lives. So, in every aspect of our lives we are to trust and depend on Him and not our riches.
Those evil rich men who oppress others are warned: “While here on earth, you have thought only of filling your own stomachs and having a good time. But now you are like fat cattle on their way to be butchered” (v.5). “You have condemned and murdered innocent people, who couldn’t even fight back” (v.6).
Lift your voice and shout, “Glory!”