Trading Places

1. The Trial of Poverty - Trying but Temporary (v.9)

“Let the lowly brother boast in his exaltation”

Point to Ponder: Faith in Christ leads poor believers to forgot their temporary earthly poverty and to remember their future eternal reward.

2. The Temptation of Prosperity - Deceptive and Transitory (v.10-11)

“and the rich in his humiliation, because like a flower of the grass he will pass away. For the sun rises with its scorching heat and withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beauty perishes. So also will the rich man fade away in the midst of his pursuits.”

Point to Ponder: Faith in Christ leads rich believers to forget their transitory earthly riches and to remain humble before God.

3. Our Eternal Promise - Permanent and Glorious (v.12)

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”

Point to Ponder: By their faith in Christ, poor and rich believers stand as equal before God - undeservedly blessed with the promise of eternal life.