James, in the great tradition of the OT prophets, cries out against the rich who abuse the poor. These use the power of their position and money to rob the poor. They do not pay a living wage. The prophets have always cried out against those at the top who syphon all wealth off for themselves. It is just as true today as it has ever been. The disparity upsets “the Lord of Hosts” and His prophets. The rich hand money subtly through their lobbyist to write laws that protect their position and wealth. Oppression of the poor is the hidden effect. The message of OT and NT has a lot to say about that. Is this really a “devotional thought”? Absolutely! Our formation and spiritual growth must include thoughts and actions for the downtrodden.
“Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you. Your riches have rotted and your garments are moth-eaten. Your gold and silver have corroded, and their corrosion will be evidence against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have laid up treasure in the last days. Behold, the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, are crying out against you, and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts. You have lived on the earth in luxury and in self-indulgence. You have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter. You have condemned and murdered the righteous person. He does not resist you. James 5:1–6 (ESV)
