But the one who is rich should exult in his low position, because he will pass away like a flower of the field.
Verse 10. But the rich, in that he is made low. That is, because his property is taken away, and he is made poor. Such a transition is often the source of the deepest sorrow; but the apostle says that even in that a Christian may find occasion for thanksgiving.
But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away. (8) Before he concludes, he gives a doctrine contrasted to the former: that is, how we ought to use prosperity, that is, the abundance of all things: that is, so that no man pleases himself, but rather be humble. (i) Who has all things at his will.
Troubles may befal the best Christians. Satan uses afflictions to draw men to sin or deter them from duty, but in God's hand they trial and improve our graces; the gold enters the furnace to be purified. We need armor on every side because temptations lie on all sides.
AI summary
Commenting on James 1:2-12