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When James speaks about the poor, he is talking about those who have no money and also about those whose simple values are despised by much of our affluent society. Perhaps the “poor” people prefer serving to managing, human relationships to financial security, peace to power. This does not mean that the poor will automatically go to heaven and the rich to hell. Poor people, however, are usually more aware of their powerlessness. Thus, it is often easier for them to acknowledge their need for salvation. One of the greatest barriers to salvation for the rich is pride. For the poor, bitterness can often bar the way to acceptance of salvation.--- Life Application Study Bible notesPRAYERDear Heavenly Father,Forgive me when I try to live on my own with arrogant independence leaving You out.I confess there are times when the security in money and possessions convinced me more than You. Father, I know I can only serve one God.Help me not to worship anything other than You.Teach me to see that the wealth in this world is only superficial and will fade away.Take off our blinders and open our eyes to see our true wealth is in our faith which lasts eternally.In Jesus’ nameAmen