James 1:11

An Understandable Version (2005 edition)

For the sun rises with its scorching heat and withers the grass [so that] its flower [blossoms] fall off, and its beautiful appearance is destroyed. In the same way, the wealthy person will fade away as he goes about his business [affairs].

Cross References

Matthew 13:6

But when the sun came up these tender sprouts were scorched and, since they had such tiny roots, they [quickly] withered away.

Matthew 20:12

saying, ‘These men [you hired] last have worked only one hour and you gave them wages equal to ours when we carried the heaviest load of the day’s work and [put up with] the scorching heat [all day long].’

Matthew 6:30

So, if God so [beautifully] dresses the grass in a field, which is [green] today, and [then] tomorrow [dries up and] is thrown in the oven [i.e., as fuel], will He not do even more in providing your clothing, you people with such little faith?

Mark 4:6

But when the sun came up the newly sprouted plants were scorched, and because they had no roots, [soon] withered away.

1 Corinthians 7:31

And those who make use of the things of the world [should live] as though they were not [really] involved with them. For the world as we know it is passing away. [Note: The five “as though’s” of verses 29-31 are intended to emphasize that Christians should live with eternity in mind and not to become preoccupied with even legitimate earthly circumstances].

1 Peter 1:4

Through Him we have an inheritance that cannot be corrupted or contaminated, and will never disappear; it is reserved in heaven for you.

1 Peter 5:4

And when the Supreme Shepherd [i.e., Jesus] comes back, you will receive [for your effort] a glorious crown [of reward] that will never fade away [Note: The idea of “fading away” is suggested by the wilting of the laurel wreath bestowed on the winner of an athletic contest].