The David Spoon Experience 4-12-24 part 1

A) In James Chapter 4, Verse 15, we are reminded of the importance of humility. This passage teaches us to say, “If the Lord is willing,” acknowledging that our plans are subject to God’s will. This concept echoes the Rabbinical proverb, “Man plans, and God laughs.” It’s a reminder that God is in control of the universe, not us.
B) The scripture further clarifies this by stating, “If the Lord is willing, we will live and do this or that.” It’s a reminder of our mortality and the inevitability of our departure from this earthly journey. As stated in Hebrews, “There’s an appointment for man once to die and then the judgment.” There’s no reincarnation or rescheduling; if the Lord wills, we will live, and if He does not, we won’t.
C) James also points out the source of our boasting - our prideful intentions. We often forget that there’s a master plan, and we are not the ones in control. The type of boasting we do in pride is evil, akin to the sin that led to Satan’s fall. When we operate in pride, we align ourselves with the enemy, thinking we can be like God.
D) The key takeaway is this: if we know we shouldn’t do something and still do it, it’s a sin. Similarly, if we know we should do something and don’t do it, it’s also a sin. It’s easier to detect than one might think; we just need to check our conscience, or as you put it, our “guilt-o-meter.”
E) James 5:1-3 presents a stern warning against those who hoard their wealth. God doesn’t hate the rich or the poor. However, those who hoard their wealth, whether money or other resources, to the point of decay demonstrate their guilt. God does not appreciate such behavior.