Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position.
James presents us with an interesting challenge here: What is the difference between “circumstances” and “position?”
The term “circumstance” generally refers to something both external and material. Oftentimes it refers to a person’s financial situation. People without money are in “poor circumstances.” But James recognizes that being poor in material things has little to nothing to do with one’s “position” in life.
Why?
Does James have some special insight here? I think he does.
James grew up with a half brother whose name was Jesus. Their parents would never have been confused with being well off. When Jesus was born his mother and adoptive father were so poor that they could only afford to make an offering of a pair of doves or two young pigeons (Luke 2: 24). Life did not get a lot better for them. Jesus had very little in the way of material possessions when he started his ministry.
It was only later after Jesus had been crucified and raised from the dead, that James had his eyes opened to the truth. This Jesus he had lived with all his life was, in fact, the Son of God.
Now, if God’s Son had a choice of families to be born into, if he had chosen the poorest of the poor as parents, if he eschewed money and worldly power, what does that say about “position?” Who holds a higher position than God himself?
Application: James draws a distinction between spiritual position and worldly position. The implication is that people in humble financial circumstances are less inclined towards the arrogance that is common in those who are wealthy. James invites us to examine ourselves and our attitudes: Are we humble before God and man regardless of our circumstances?
Food for thought: James tells us that those in humble positions should take “pride” in their position. What kind of ”pride” is James talking about?
This is one of those very difficult and debated passages. I think it is clear to say that everything we see from the rest of the book of James as well as other Scripture, that this is not a pride or exaltation that comes from selfish ambition or vain conceit. I think it likely refers to the fact that God exalts the humble. Thus, we should seek God’s approval and receive our praise from Him rather than other people.
Rich,
Thank you for the thoughtful response to today’s question. So many words in our language have multiple meanings and layers depending on context. It is easy to misconstrue the translator’s intent if we are not aware of this aspect of our language.
First, I agree with your assessment. Well said! After reading your comment I dove into the Greek to better understand Paul’s intent. The Greek word is “kauchaomai“. Strong’s Concordance lists other translation choices as; glory, boast, rejoice and joy.
Glory is one of those concepts I personally struggle with. Yet the gist of what you are saying and what I hear in the underlying subtext is that doing what is right before God feels good. It is this feeling of having done what is right before God that is captured in the words “glory” or “pride.”
Being proud to be a servant.