James 5 :1-8

Verses 1-6 address those who are rich... but do not walk in godly wisdom.  These people hoard their wealth.. so much so that it is "rotted" and "moth-eaten".  Their gold and silver is "rusted" or as the KJV says, "cankered".. corroded.  It has been hoarded and hidden away so long that it is not useful.  The "rust will be a witness against you and will consume your flesh like fire."   This term "rust" indicates that these hoarded riches will turn poisonous.. like the venom of an asp.  

These rich people "have stored up treasures" in the last days..  They have fattened themselves at the expense of others.. and have not realized that the time is coming when they will be judged for their actions. 

James says that those who used others to do the work but refused to pay them for it, would be condemned, because the "Lord of the Sabaoth" hears the cries of the oppressed.  The Lord of the Sabaoth- the Lord of the armies... will answer the cries of those treated so horribly.   The Lord opposes those who live in luxury while trampling down the innocent and righteous. 

James then turns back to the believers.. "Be patient, therefore, brethren, until the coming of the Lord."  Don't lose heart.  Just like a farmer waits for his crop to grow until it is fully ready to be harvested.. the Lord is waiting for us, so "You too, be patient; strengthen your hearts for the coming of the Lord is at hand." (v8) 

We can hear the echo of James 1:2-4 " Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. " 

Yes, the rich unbelievers have acted sinfully and defrauded you. But, God will use even this for your good.. believe it and rejoice in it!  Be patient and watch to see what the Lord of the Sabaoth will do.  He will lead His army to your side.  His coming is "at hand". 

Father in heaven,  thank You for all that You have provided for us. Thank You for our daily bread. Thank You for hearing our prayers when we have been treated badly.  There are many today, Lord, who are being oppressed and defrauded. There are many who are persecuted for Your Name's sake.  Hear their cries Lord of the Sabaoth.. and come to them. Help them to be patient and to rejoice in what You are doing and will do.  Help us to be faithful.. and generous.. and truthful.  All that we have comes from You and belongs to You.. we pray for godly wisdom to use what we have been given in the ways that You intend it to be used.  Let Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven!  Father,  help us to be patient as we wait for Your coming.  May we have endurance and be made complete as You work in our lives.  We ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.