4:13-:17. Warning against selfish boasting and pride
The person who is full of self-centred plans and
confidence about what he expects to do is ignoring the will of God for his
Life. Many Jews were successful merchants and traders; 4: 13 reflects that
attitude which such money-seekers might have. What James says in 4:13-15 reminds us of what Jesus says in
the parable of the rich fool, Luke 12:16-21,
and in Matthew 6:25-34. The awareness of dependence on God's
mercy and will is often expressed by Biblical writers. Paul used the phrase,
'if the Lord allows', in 1 Corinthians
16:7 and 4:19, when referring to future hopes.