LOL (Life on Lease)
(James 4:12-17, 5:1-6)
LOL (Life on Lease)
Throughout the decades of my life, I’ve grown to appreciate how we’ve simplified certain types of communication in our society, especially when it comes to second hand communication. It used to be really hard to know how someone felt via text message, until the emoji was created. Now we know if someone is happy or sad…or mad…or livid…or laughing. Let’s stay on that one, because before the emoji there was the godfather of modern communication:
The “LOL”
Though some misunderstood what it meant earlier on, it’s become very clear that when something is funny we LAUGH OUT LOUD. Not as funny, but just as laughable, is the condition of many (including believers) in our society that they make everything in their lives happen on their own; that they weren’t influenced by anyone else and that they needed no help to accomplish what they have.
L….O…..L
This leads me to a primary point on this blog. It is laughable to think anything ever worth accomplishing or that we have accomplished could truly be done in anyway other than by His providence. Ever. It gives me the understanding that we have a different LOL we need to acknowledge in our lives. We have a LIFE ON LEASE. It is not our own. We are simply stewards, and failure to accept and navigate through this will end horribly for anyone who tries. No ifs, ands, or buts.
A Life on Lease
James does an excellent job of expressing this. He reminds us that our lives are not our own but a lease given by God. Many of us move through life making plans as though we control tomorrow, but Scripture tells us that our lives are like a morning fog—here for a moment, then gone (James 4:13–14). True wisdom is found not in self-confidence or boasting but in surrender to God’s providence, acknowledging, “If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.” Recognizing that our time and opportunities are gifts changes how we live each day. We have agency and we have free will for what it’s worth, but this really doesn’t happen any other way.
When Plans Become Pretension
The danger lies in living as though we are the ultimate authors of our future. James warns that boasting in our pretentious plans is evil (James 4:16). We may believe we are building something significant, but apart from God’s direction our efforts collapse. Scripture and history remind us that even when God’s people ignored His commands, He eventually called them to account. His mercy is patient, but it will only carry us so far before we need to course correct, but if we don’t we will soon discover that mercy has an end and that end only brings one thing. His justice. And His just always…always brings consequence. The lesson is clear: self-assurance without God is a fragile foundation.
The Call to Stewardship
James also addresses wealth and privilege, warning the rich of coming judgment (James 5:1–6). Wealth that is hoarded, gained unjustly, or used selfishly corrodes both possessions and souls. But this message isn’t just for the visibly wealthy—it’s for all of us. Everyone has been entrusted with resources, gifts, and influence. The question is whether we will steward them for God’s purposes (generosity) or indulge ourselves in temporary luxuries (greed). Will we unknowingly fatten ourselves for the slaughter? Will we become human ribeyes?
As Paul wrote, our works will be tested by fire, and only what is built on Christ will endure (1 Corinthians 3:12–15). What many fail to realize is that failure to adhere to what God is telling us to do now has eternal implications and consequences. Many believe that they will be with the Lord in eternity and they may be right. However, if this understanding is true (and it is) it means they’re not gonna have that mansion that everyone’s talkin’ about…just thoughts.
Living with Eternal Perspective
When we realize that our life is “on lease,” it reframes everything. We are not owners but stewards, entrusted with time, relationships, and opportunities to glorify Christ. This truth should humble us, but it should also free us. If life is God’s gift, then each day is an opportunity to live purposefully, serve faithfully, and point others to the hope of Jesus. Or let’s say it this way. When we recognize that we have a LIFE ON LEASE, then and only then do we get a new LEASE ON LIFE. Rather than clinging tightly to wealth, status, or control, we are invited to walk humbly, depend fully, and live joyfully in the confidence that God directs our steps.
Amen. Amen again.
![Jordan Brown, Pastor at [OV]Church, with a serious expression, wearing a pink shirt, against a backdrop of a clear sky and clouds, reflecting themes of patience and integrity.](https://multiplythechurch.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/jordancolorpic-150x150-1.jpeg)
— Jordan Brown
Pastor (Ministries and Outreach) [OV] Church