Study of James 4:13-17

Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business, and make a profit.” You do not even know what will happen tomorrow! What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.

Instead, you ought to say, “If the Lord is willing, we will live and do this or that.” As it is, you boast in your proud intentions. All such boasting is evil. Anyone, then, who knows the right thing to do, yet fails to do it, is guilty of sin.
— James 4:13-17


James addresses the uncertainty of life and the danger of presumption. He warns against making plans without acknowledging God’s sovereignty, illustrating this with the example of a businessman who confidently declares his future endeavors. James reminds us that life is fleeting—like a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. This imagery underscores the fragile and temporary nature of human existence.

Rather than boasting in our own plans, James encourages an attitude of humility and dependence on God. The proper perspective is to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.” This does not mean we should avoid making plans altogether, but rather that our plans should always be submitted to God’s will. Recognizing that our future is in God’s hands fosters trust and a willingness to follow His leading.

James concludes with a strong statement: “Whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin.” This reminds us that sin is not only about committing wrong actions but also about neglecting to do what is right. When we recognize God’s will but choose to ignore it, we are acting in disobedience.

This passage calls us to live with humility, recognizing God’s authority over our lives. It encourages us to hold our plans loosely, seeking God’s direction, and being ready to follow where He leads.


Questions

1. Why do you think James warns against boasting about future plans? How does this passage challenge your perspective on planning?

2. What does it mean to live with the attitude of “If the Lord wills”? How can you incorporate this mindset into your daily decisions?

3. How does recognizing the brevity of life impact the way you prioritize your time and commitments?

4. James speaks of the sin of omission—failing to do what is right. In what areas of your life might God be calling you to action?


Prayer

Sovereign Lord,

I acknowledge that my life is in Your hands. Teach me to submit my plans to You, trusting that Your will is far greater than my own desires. Help me to live each day with humility, remembering that my time on earth is brief. Show me the good You have called me to do, and give me the courage to act in obedience. May I live with a heart surrendered to Your perfect will.

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

-

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