Rich, Lowly, or Both?

As James concludes the introductory encouragement to his readers in chapter 1, verses 9–11 are addressed to the lowly and the rich. The reader may be inclined to think that James is
addressing believers at opposite ends of financial means, but while “rich” clearly implies
earthly wealth, “lowly” has a much deeper meaning. The Greek word translated as “lowly” here means humble and appears elsewhere in the New Testament describing Jesus (Phil. 2:8, Matt. 11:29).

Having humility (being humble) by recognizing the need for a Savior is the common
denominator for believers from all walks of life. Humility is a realistic view of oneself—true
reality. The humble person does not place himself over anyone or cling to accomplishments but, rather, submits to Jesus as the only eternal hope. So, can the lowly boast? Yes, and they should, but their boasting is in what Jesus has done. James uses the term “exaltation.”

What about the rich? James says they should also boast but in their humiliation. The things
this world values tend to occupy our attention and our time, and they often drive our pursuits, becoming our heart’s desire. Earthly riches, whether they be accomplishments, accolades, promotions, or financial rewards are good things, but they are fleeting—virtual reality. They don’t go with us into eternity, nor do they matter, because the Lord sees our heart, who we are without our riches.

To the extent that we see ourselves as the Lord does, we become humble. Rich or poor, we
must become the lowly who recognize our dire need for Jesus, and we are exalted because of what the Lord has done. “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” (1 Cor. 1:31).