James 4:13

Go to now. A phrase designed to arrest attention, implying disapproval of what follows. James continues his underlying theme — the divided loyalty of church members. The “double minded” man (James 1:8) does not possess heavenly wisdom (see on chs. 1:5; 3:14-18); he neglects the courtesy due his fellow men (see on chs. 2:1-17; 4:11, 12) and lacks purity of heart toward God (see on chs. 3:17; 4:3-10). James here addresses church members who neglect God in their daily business.

Say. Either by the spoken word or by the thought in the mind.

To day. These church members plan for the future as if God did not exist. Moreover, they plan as if the making of their future rested in their own hands. Compare Prov. 27:1.

Continue. The language implies that when this set period of time has passed, similar plans for another period of time will be made.

Buy and sell. The apostle does not condemn sound planning for business enterprises. But the typical case he cites reflects neglect of God’s particular purposes for each life.

Gain. The “earthly” viewpoint (see on James 3:15) emphasizes the material advantage at the expense of the spirit. Material prosperity is no sin (see on James 1:10) if it remains secondary to the primary object of all Christianity — the fulfilling of the will of God. Compare the foolish rich man (see on Luke 12:15-21).