The uncertainty of material prosperity should humble one as he faces a new year. One may rightfully desire material prosperity (cf. 3 John 2), yet there is no certain guarantee that such prosperity will come his way. The man Job was very prosperous, but in a relatively brief period of time he lost all of his material wealth (cf. Job 1:2-3, 13-17). Those to whom James initially wrote thought they had a year all planned. Their plans included engaging in business in a certain city from which they would make a profit and, perhaps, even a great profit (cf. James 4:13). However, James challenged their thinking with the charge that they were pretentious, arrogant, and boastful. He said, “But now you boast in your arrogance” (James 4:16). It “refers to empty boasting that seeks to impress. It is extravagant claims that one cannot fulfill” (Rogers 563).
One is reminded of Paul’s words to the preacher Timothy concerning material wealth, and those who possess it in great abundance. He wrote, “Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life” (1 Tim. 6:17-19,). Even if one presently possesses great abundance of material wealth and prosperity he needs to realize that the continuing possession of such is uncertain. Job learned this. The rich man of whom the Lord spoke in his parable (Luke 12:16-21) also learned this, but, too late. Just when he thought he had “all his ducks in order,” and ready to really enjoy his wealth, God said, “You fool! This night your soul will be required of you; whose will those things be which you have provided?” (Luke 12:20).
Human experience, as well as biblical testimony, verifies the uncertainty of material prosperity. In 1923, nine of the world’s most successful financiers met at Chicago’s Edgewater Beach Hotel. Financially they controlled the world. Included were Charles Schwab, president of the largest steel company, Howard Hopson, president of the largest gas company, and Jesse Livermore the greatest “bear” on Wall Street. Many, no doubt, would like to have been in the position of these individuals. Their power, position, and possessions were great. However, twenty-five years later Schwab was bankrupt and lived the last five years of his life on borrowed money. Hopson was insane and Livermore had committed suicide. The other six experienced similar fates. It spells in capital letters the uncertainty of material security. Jesus said it best: “Take heed . . . one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses” (Luke 12:15).
-Charles Pugh, III
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