The Perspective of Rich and Poor

Let the lowly brother glory in his exaltation, 10 but the rich in his humiliation, because (A)as a flower of the field he will pass away. 11 For no sooner has the sun risen with a burning heat than it withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beautiful appearance perishes. So the rich man also will fade away in his pursuits.

Loving God Under Trials

12 (B)Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive (C)the crown of life (D)which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. 13 Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. 14 But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. 15 Then, (E)when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, (F)brings forth death.

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Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position.(A) 10 But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower.(B) 11 For the sun rises with scorching heat(C) and withers(D) the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed.(E) In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business.

12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial(F) because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life(G) that the Lord has promised to those who love him.(H)

13 When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; 14 but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own(I) evil desire and enticed. 15 Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin;(J) and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.(K)

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