James 4:16
A plain-spoken deep dive on this verse. Read the chapter →
As it is, you boast in your proud intentions. All such boasting is evil.
Commentaries
Excerpts gathered from published commentaries to ground the reading.
now--as it is. rejoice in . . . boastings--"ye boast in arrogant presumptions," namely, vain confident fancies that the future is certain to you (Jam 4:13). rejoicing--boasting [BENGEL].
Open source ↗In this chapter we are directed to consider, I. Some causes of contention, besides those mentioned in the foregoing chapter, and to watch against them (Jam 4:1-5). II. We are taught to abandon the friendship of this world, so as to submit and subject ourselves entirely to God (Jam 4:4-10). III. All detraction and rash judgment of others are to be carefully avoided (Jam 4:11, Jam 4:12). IV. We must preserve a constant regard, and pay the utmost deference to the disposals of divine Providence (Jam 4:13 to the end).
Open source ↗4:16 Christians may boast about what God has done (1:9-10), but not about their own arrogant plans, which assume that God has no claim or authority over their lives.
Open source ↗Original language
The Hebrew and Greek words behind this passage, with Strong's numbers — from openscriptures (CC BY-SA).
Cross-references
Other passages the community most often connects to this one. Tap to read.
Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.
Your boasting is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven works through the whole batch of dough?
“Look at the man who did not make God his refuge, but trusted in the abundance of his wealth and strengthened himself by destruction.”
Like clouds and wind without rain is the man who boasts of gifts never given.
But if you harbor bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast in it or deny the truth.
You were secure in your wickedness; you said, ‘No one sees me.’ Your wisdom and knowledge led you astray; you told yourself, ‘I am, and there is none besides me.’
Why do you boast of evil, O mighty man? The loving devotion of God endures all day long.
As much as she has glorified herself and lived in luxury, give her the same measure of torment and grief. In her heart she says, ‘I sit as queen; I am not a widow and will never see grief.’