James 4:14
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Whereas ye know not - This verse should be read in a parenthesis. It is not only impious, but grossly absurd, to speak thus concerning futurity, when ye know not what a day may bring forth. Life is utterly precarious; and God has not put it within the power of all the creatures he has made to command one moment of what is future. It is even a vapour - Ατμις γαρ εστιν· It is a smoke, always fleeting, uncertain, evanescent, and obscured with various trials and afflictions. This is a frequent metaphor with the Hebrews; see Psa 102:11; My days are like a shadow: Job 8:9; Our days upon earth are a shadow: Ch1 29:15; Our days on the earth are a shadow, and there is no abiding. Quid tam circumcisum, tam breve, quam hominis vita longissima? Plin. l. iii., Ep. 7. "What is so circumscribed, or so short, as the longest life of man?" "All flesh is grass, and all the goodliness thereof is as the flower of the field. The grass withereth, and the flower fadeth, because the breath of the Lord bloweth upon it. Surely the people is like grass." St. James had produced the same figure, Jam 1:10, Jam 1:11. But there is a very remarkable saying in the book of Ecclesiasticus, which should be quoted: "As of the green leaves of a thick tree, some fall and some grow; so is the generation of flesh and blood: one cometh to an end, and another is born." Ecclus. 14:18. We find precisely the same image in Homer as that quoted above. Did the apocryphal writer borrow it from the Greek poet? Οἱη περ φυλλων γενεη, τοιηδε και ανδρων· Φυλλα τα μεν τ' ανεμος χαμαδις χεει, αλλα δε θ' ὑλη Τηλεθοωσα φυει, εσρος δ' επιγιγνεται ὡρη· Ὡς ανδρων γενεη, ἡ μεν φυει, ἡ δ' αποληγει. Il. l. vi., ver. 146. Like leaves on trees the race of man is found, Now green in youth, now withering on the ground Another race the following spring supplies; They fall successive, and successive rise. So generations in their course decay; So flourish these, when those are pass'd away. Pope.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
what--literally, "of what nature" is your life? that is, how evanescent it is. It is even--Some oldest authorities read, "For ye are." BENGEL, with other old authorities, reads, "For it shall be," the future referring to the "morrow" (Jam 4:13-15). The former expresses, "Ye yourselves are transitory"; so everything of yours, even your life, must partake of the same transitoriness. Received text has no old authority. and then vanisheth away--"afterwards vanishing as it came"; literally, "afterwards (as it appeared), so vanishing" [ALFORD].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow,.... Whether there would be a morrow for them or not, whether they should live till tomorrow; and if they should, they knew not what a morrow would bring forth, or what things would happen, which might prevent their intended journey and success: no man can secure a day, an hour, a moment, and much less a year of continuance in this life; nor can he foresee what will befall him today or tomorrow; therefore it is great stupidity to determine on this, and the other, without the leave of God, in whom he lives, moves, and has his being; and by whose providence all events are governed and directed; see Pro 27:1 for what is your life? of what kind and nature is it? what assurance can be had of the continuance of it? by what may it be expressed? or to what may it be compared? it is even a vapour that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away; which rises out of the earth, or water, and expires almost as soon as it exists; at least, continues but a very short time, and is very weak and fleeting, and carried about here and there, and soon returns from whence it came: the allusion is to the breath of man, which is in his nostrils, and who is not to be accounted of, or depended on.
James 4:14
Do Not Boast about Tomorrow
13Come 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.”14You 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.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
What Is Your Life? (Cd Quality)
By Leonard Ravenhill9.2K1:19:04Brevity Of LifeROM 6:4GAL 5:24COL 3:3JAS 4:141JN 5:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of using our time wisely and seeking a meaningful relationship with God. He encourages the audience to prioritize their spiritual growth over worldly distractions. The speaker highlights the incredible truth that as believers, our lives are hidden in Christ and in God. He challenges the listeners to surrender their own desires and submit to God's authority, recognizing the need for discipline and studying the Word of God.
What Is Your Life?
By Leonard Ravenhill5.8K1:19:15Brevity Of LifeGEN 1:1EXO 25:8EXO 25:22MAT 6:33GAL 5:24JAS 4:14REV 22:2In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the crucifixion of Jesus and the impact it had on the people who witnessed it. He emphasizes the importance of using our time wisely and not wasting it on worldly distractions. The speaker encourages the audience to seek a meaningful relationship with God and to prioritize spiritual growth over worldly entertainment. He also addresses the fundamental questions of life, such as where we come from, why we are here, and where we are going, highlighting the need for a proper understanding of these questions in light of our faith.
What Is Your Life?
By J. Vernon McGee5.0K44:45GEN 1:1JOB 9:2JHN 1:29ACT 16:30HEB 2:3JAS 4:14In this sermon titled "What Is Your Life?" Dr. McGee explores the brevity and uncertainty of human life. He emphasizes that life is a place of decision and preparation for eternity. Using the example of a rich man in a parable, Dr. McGee warns against the dangers of placing too much importance on worldly success and neglecting spiritual matters. He encourages listeners to acknowledge their dependence on God and to live in accordance with His will.
Don't Waste Your Life - Part 1
By John Piper4.1K08:47JOB 1:18PSA 139:16ECC 3:1LUK 13:1JAS 4:14This sermon emphasizes the importance of not wasting our lives and finding significance, power, and meaning in every moment, even in the midst of pain and suffering. It reflects on tragic events like natural disasters and challenges listeners to repent and not take life for granted, recognizing that our lives are in God's hands and we exist for His purpose.
Life Story of Keith Green - Part 2
By Melody Green3.0K1:11:19Keith GreenISA 29:13HOS 10:12AMO 5:21MAT 19:16LUK 9:23EPH 4:30JAS 4:14In the sermon transcripts, Keith shares his burden for revival and the need for more people to come forward and experience a true transformation in their faith. He emphasizes the importance of putting our focus on Jesus Christ rather than on pastors or Christian music. Keith also talks about the urgency of using music to draw the lost and preach the gospel, highlighting the shortness of life and the responsibility of Christians to reach out to every nation. He concludes by discussing the lack of workers in the world compared to the abundance of the gospel in the United States, urging Christians to obey the command to go and make disciples.
Here's My Life
By Leonard Ravenhill2.8K53:59Brevity Of LifeGEN 1:24PSA 90:9MAT 6:19LUK 14:282TI 4:6JAS 4:141PE 1:24In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about meeting a 94-year-old lady who lived to be 108. He reflects on the brevity of life and asks the audience to consider what their own lives mean. He contrasts the fleeting pleasures of the world with the eternal significance of following Jesus. The speaker also mentions the example of Stephen Greiligt, who faced death and hardship in order to spread the message of Christ. The sermon concludes with a question about how to explain eternity to others.
Important Questions
By Leonard Ravenhill2.4K06:41ISA 40:6JHN 4:14JHN 5:40JHN 6:35JHN 8:12JHN 10:10JHN 14:6JAS 4:14This sermon delves into the profound question posed in the text about the essence of life, emphasizing the fleeting nature of our existence and the critical personal reflection it demands. It explores the three fundamental questions about life: where we come from, our purpose, and our ultimate destination. Drawing from various perspectives on life, it highlights the transient and fragile nature of human life as depicted in the Bible, likening it to swift and temporary elements like vapor, a weaver's shuttle, and grass in the field.
Life Is a Vapor. Live Like It!
By Tim Conway2.3K05:04PSA 39:4ECC 12:13MAT 6:19JAS 4:141JN 2:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of having a mindset aligned with God's perspective on life and eternity. It contrasts the worldly mindset that views life as forever with the biblical truth that life is fleeting and temporary. The speaker urges listeners to adopt a mindset that values eternity over temporary worldly pursuits, reminding them of the brevity of life and the need for wisdom in how they invest their time and resources.
The Sermon on the Mount - Part 2
By Leonard Ravenhill1.9K51:12Sermon on the MountGEN 3:8MAT 5:48ROM 8:82CO 4:18GAL 6:7JAS 4:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that the way the world lives is not aligned with God's plan. He highlights that the answer to all our problems cannot be achieved by human efforts alone, but rather through God's intervention. The preacher emphasizes that the kingdom of God is not found in physical structures like castles and mansions, but rather within each individual. He encourages Christians to have a godlike disposition and to focus on spiritual growth rather than worldly pursuits. The sermon also touches on the importance of living a life dedicated to God and doing His will, rather than seeking personal gain or recognition.
The Wicked Man's Life, Funeral & Epitaph
By C.H. Spurgeon1.8K47:08PSA 51:17PRO 14:12ISA 55:6MAT 7:21ROM 2:4HEB 4:12JAS 4:14In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the power of the word of God and the lack of response from some individuals. He describes witnessing people being moved by the sermon, shedding tears and showing emotion, but ultimately failing to be truly transformed. The preacher laments the hardness of heart and resistance to salvation, comparing it to a deaf adder that cannot be charmed. He concludes by emphasizing the futility of a wicked person's life and the hopelessness of their legacy, contrasting it with the promise of resurrection for the righteous.
The Church in Smyrna
By Carter Conlon1.8K49:02SmyrnaJAS 4:14REV 2:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the temporary nature of life on earth. He compares it to a vapor of smoke that appears for a season and then vanishes away. The preacher also references a warning to the rich men who seem to have glory but fade away like the flower of the grass. The sermon encourages believers to not fear the suffering and tribulation they may face, as it is only for a short season. The preacher highlights the richness found in the church and reminds the audience that their true wealth is in Christ.
What Is Your Life - Part 2
By Leonard Ravenhill1.8K09:44ISA 40:6JAS 4:14This sermon delves into the profound question posed in James 4:14 about the brevity and uncertainty of life, emphasizing the fleeting nature of our existence and the importance of reflecting on life's purpose and destination. It explores the concept of life as a vapor, drawing parallels to various poetic expressions and biblical references that highlight the transient nature of human life. The sermon challenges listeners to consider the eternal significance of their actions and choices in light of life's fleeting nature and the ultimate importance of living for God.
'Son, Remember' Preached in 1879 Reading of d.l. Moody by Robert Wurtz
By Robert Wurtz II1.6K14:37PRO 27:1PRO 29:1MAT 25:13LUK 12:202CO 6:2HEB 3:15JAS 4:142PE 3:9REV 3:20This sermon recounts a powerful story from Dwight L. Moody about a man who struggled with moral courage to publicly confess Christ, leading to tragic consequences due to procrastination and a hardened heart. It emphasizes the urgency of making a decision for Christ without delay, highlighting the danger of putting off salvation and the devastating outcome of rejecting God's offer of grace and forgiveness.
Blessed Are Those Who Die in the Lord
By Bob Jennings1.6K41:29MAT 25:21JHN 8:241CO 15:58PHP 3:20HEB 6:4JAS 4:141JN 2:17REV 14:13This sermon reflects on the blessings of dying in the Lord, emphasizing the rest from labors and the assurance that deeds will follow believers into eternity. It highlights the importance of persevering in faith, avoiding sin, and living a life dedicated to Christ to receive the promised blessings. The speaker encourages the audience to focus on heavenly rewards, the certainty of God's promises, and the joy of being with the Lord in eternity.
The Humility of God
By Dean Stump1.4K1:15:23HumilityZEC 4:10MAT 6:33LUK 16:102CO 4:18PHP 1:231TI 4:12JAS 4:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the humility of God and how it should be reflected in our lives. He refers to Zechariah chapter four, highlighting the attention to detail that God has and how we should also pay attention to the small things in life. The preacher encourages the audience not to despise the day of small things, emphasizing the importance of how we live our lives, spend our money, and use our time. He shares a personal story of a friend who nearly died and questions why it takes such experiences for us to see God in a greater way.
I Wish I Was 18 Again by K P Yohannan
By K.P. Yohannan1.3K04:07PSA 90:12MAT 6:19JAS 4:14This sermon reflects on the passage of time and the importance of making each day count for God's honor and glory. It emphasizes the fleeting nature of life and the insignificance of worldly pursuits in the grand scheme of eternity, urging listeners to focus on serving others and living a life that reflects God's love and kindness.
(Clip) the Miracle of the New Birth
By Leonard Ravenhill1.3K12:48JHN 10:10ROM 6:62CO 5:17GAL 2:20COL 3:3JAS 4:14This sermon delves into the profound question posed in the Epistle of James: 'For what is your life?' It challenges individuals to reflect on the brevity and significance of their own lives, emphasizing the transient nature of life compared to eternal truths. The speaker urges a deeper understanding of salvation beyond mere confession, highlighting the need for a transformative relationship with Christ that impacts every aspect of one's being. The message underscores the call to live a life hidden in Christ, seeking heavenly treasures and embodying a radical commitment to following Jesus.
Redeeming the Time
By William B. Riley1.2K01:12Time ManagementEvangelismPSA 90:12MAT 28:19EPH 5:15COL 4:5JAS 4:14William B. Riley emphasizes the importance of redeeming our time for God, sharing a personal story of a boy he spoke to years ago who later became a pastor. He reflects on the profound impact that a brief conversation about Christ can have on someone's life and the urgency of making the most of our time with others. Riley expresses regret for not investing more time in conversations that could lead to conversion, urging listeners to recognize the potential for marvelous results in their interactions. The sermon calls for a commitment to use our time wisely in service to God and others.
Living for Eternity 1 - Part 2
By Joshua Daniel1.2K08:38MAT 6:19MAT 6:24MAT 6:34MAT 16:26MRK 8:36LUK 12:151TI 6:10JAS 4:141PE 5:8This sermon emphasizes the danger of allowing money to dictate our lives, urging listeners to prioritize spiritual growth over material possessions. It contrasts the worldly focus on wealth with the example of Jesus, who prioritized spiritual authority and service over financial concerns. The speaker shares personal experiences of witnessing demon possession and highlights the importance of being prepared for eternity, living each day as if it could be our last.
Pilate's Wife - Part 1
By John Piper1.2K10:34MAT 10:28LUK 8:43LUK 13:1LUK 23:34ROM 6:23ROM 8:28JAS 4:14In this sermon transcript, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing the gift of life and the imminent judgment that could befall anyone. The speaker urges the listeners to marvel at the fact that they are still alive and breathing, despite the possibility of death. The sermon also highlights the seriousness of sin and the sovereignty of God in governing all things. The preacher then focuses on the encounter between Pilate's wife, Claudia, and Jesus, where she is confronted with the truth and the need for repentance. The sermon concludes with a declaration of hope and the power of Christ to forgive even the most heinous sins.
Dont Go Back to Your Sin, You May Die
By Tim Conway1.1K08:21PRO 29:1MAT 16:26LUK 13:3ROM 6:232CO 6:2HEB 3:15HEB 9:27JAS 4:142PE 3:9This sermon emphasizes the urgency and importance of responding to the Gospel message and not hardening one's heart against the truth. It warns against the consequences of rejecting God's offer of salvation and highlights the reality of hell for those who refuse to repent. The speaker shares personal stories of individuals who heard the truth but chose to continue in sin, facing tragic outcomes as a result. The message calls for immediate repentance and surrender to God before it's too late.
Radio Interview: In the Light of Eternity the Ministry of Leonard Ravenhill
By Mack Tomlinson1.0K53:21Radio InterviewPSA 90:12MAT 6:192CO 5:102TI 4:2HEB 9:27JAS 4:141PE 1:24The video discusses the ministry of a preacher who delivers powerful and convicting sermons about the serious matters of God. The preacher's seriousness and reverence for God's word is highlighted, contrasting with the light and irreverent approach often seen in contemporary music and preaching. The video emphasizes the need for believers to have a deep understanding of eternity and the judgment seat of Christ, and to live with a heavenly perspective. It also encourages viewers to learn from the examples of faithful servants of God and to recognize the difference between genuine and counterfeit expressions of faith.
Living for Eternity 1 - Part 3
By Joshua Daniel99409:50PSA 16:8MAT 8:16EPH 5:15JAS 4:8JAS 4:14This sermon emphasizes the importance of seizing every moment that Jesus gives us, reflecting on how Jesus was always ready to address needs and challenges, unlike our tendency to be unprepared. It highlights the need for a firm grip on spiritual matters, just like a skilled athlete has on their equipment, and the significance of living in the immediate presence of God. The speaker shares a personal story of seeking God's intervention for healing, showcasing the power of living closely with the King.
Collegiate Conference 1983-01 the Gospel
By William MacDonald97955:59ConferenceECC 1:2ECC 12:14MAT 16:26MRK 16:15JHN 4:13ROM 14:121CO 6:19PHP 2:11JAS 4:141PE 4:10In this sermon, the preacher talks about how people focus so much on their physical appearance and worldly possessions, but neglect their spiritual well-being. He emphasizes the importance of living for the eternal world rather than the temporary pleasures of this life. The preacher also highlights the need to take care of our souls just as we take care of our bodies. He shares stories and examples to illustrate the emptiness of pursuing worldly success and fame, and encourages the audience to prioritize their relationship with Jesus, who truly values and cares for them.
Fit or Misfit? (Part 9): The Gift of Giving
By Richard Sipley97354:51JHN 12:3ROM 12:82CO 6:22CO 9:112CO 9:132CO 9:15JAS 4:14In this sermon, the preacher discusses the motivational gift of giving, as mentioned in Romans 12:8. He shares a personal experience of encountering a church member with the gift of giving, who was wealthy and successful in his business. The preacher emphasizes the importance of giving with generosity, as instructed by God. He also references a parable told by Jesus about a man with the gift of giving, who showed compassion and took care of a wounded man. The sermon highlights the significance of recognizing and utilizing the gift of giving in serving others.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Whereas ye know not - This verse should be read in a parenthesis. It is not only impious, but grossly absurd, to speak thus concerning futurity, when ye know not what a day may bring forth. Life is utterly precarious; and God has not put it within the power of all the creatures he has made to command one moment of what is future. It is even a vapour - Ατμις γαρ εστιν· It is a smoke, always fleeting, uncertain, evanescent, and obscured with various trials and afflictions. This is a frequent metaphor with the Hebrews; see Psa 102:11; My days are like a shadow: Job 8:9; Our days upon earth are a shadow: Ch1 29:15; Our days on the earth are a shadow, and there is no abiding. Quid tam circumcisum, tam breve, quam hominis vita longissima? Plin. l. iii., Ep. 7. "What is so circumscribed, or so short, as the longest life of man?" "All flesh is grass, and all the goodliness thereof is as the flower of the field. The grass withereth, and the flower fadeth, because the breath of the Lord bloweth upon it. Surely the people is like grass." St. James had produced the same figure, Jam 1:10, Jam 1:11. But there is a very remarkable saying in the book of Ecclesiasticus, which should be quoted: "As of the green leaves of a thick tree, some fall and some grow; so is the generation of flesh and blood: one cometh to an end, and another is born." Ecclus. 14:18. We find precisely the same image in Homer as that quoted above. Did the apocryphal writer borrow it from the Greek poet? Οἱη περ φυλλων γενεη, τοιηδε και ανδρων· Φυλλα τα μεν τ' ανεμος χαμαδις χεει, αλλα δε θ' ὑλη Τηλεθοωσα φυει, εσρος δ' επιγιγνεται ὡρη· Ὡς ανδρων γενεη, ἡ μεν φυει, ἡ δ' αποληγει. Il. l. vi., ver. 146. Like leaves on trees the race of man is found, Now green in youth, now withering on the ground Another race the following spring supplies; They fall successive, and successive rise. So generations in their course decay; So flourish these, when those are pass'd away. Pope.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
what--literally, "of what nature" is your life? that is, how evanescent it is. It is even--Some oldest authorities read, "For ye are." BENGEL, with other old authorities, reads, "For it shall be," the future referring to the "morrow" (Jam 4:13-15). The former expresses, "Ye yourselves are transitory"; so everything of yours, even your life, must partake of the same transitoriness. Received text has no old authority. and then vanisheth away--"afterwards vanishing as it came"; literally, "afterwards (as it appeared), so vanishing" [ALFORD].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow,.... Whether there would be a morrow for them or not, whether they should live till tomorrow; and if they should, they knew not what a morrow would bring forth, or what things would happen, which might prevent their intended journey and success: no man can secure a day, an hour, a moment, and much less a year of continuance in this life; nor can he foresee what will befall him today or tomorrow; therefore it is great stupidity to determine on this, and the other, without the leave of God, in whom he lives, moves, and has his being; and by whose providence all events are governed and directed; see Pro 27:1 for what is your life? of what kind and nature is it? what assurance can be had of the continuance of it? by what may it be expressed? or to what may it be compared? it is even a vapour that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away; which rises out of the earth, or water, and expires almost as soon as it exists; at least, continues but a very short time, and is very weak and fleeting, and carried about here and there, and soon returns from whence it came: the allusion is to the breath of man, which is in his nostrils, and who is not to be accounted of, or depended on.