Pastor Brent opens with an illustration from science fiction author H.G. Wells, a humanistic optimist at the turn of the 20th century who became a cynical pessimist about the depravity of man by the mid-20th century. Pastor Brent outlines James 4:13-17 with “Misunderstanding” (vv. 13-14) and “Missed Opportunity” (vv. 15-17). Just as the Puritans signed their plans with “D.V.” (Deo Volente, or “God willing”), a key to this passage is that worldly boasting is an exercise in pride, but biblical boasting is an exercise in humility. Supporting texts: Deut. 8:11-14, 17-19; Matt. 6:33; Ps. 90:12; Dan. 4:29-32; and Jer. 9:23-24. Quoted theologians: Kent Hughes, Os Guinness, John Piper, and Mark Sayers.