Scripture
My friends if you have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, you won't treat some people as better than others.
Observation
James tells us that we must not treat people by their external appearances. While people of the world treat others according to social status or wealth, christians must not do this.
We need to always remember that God is not a respecter of persons. He is not impressed by human rankings and pecking orders or by wealth- He looks at the heart.
James points out that it's not the poor who oppress christians but those with power and wealth.
Application
Are my attitudes to others programmed by culture, pride and upbringing? Or do I truly try to be like Jesus, looking at people's hearts and being open to everybody?
It's easy to say I love all people. The fact is that there are people that I find it easier to like than others. I am also drawn more to people with whom I have some things in common- education, life experiences etc. These things are O.K. But I must always ensure that I am not excluding brothers and sisters who are just as loved by God.
Prayer
Lord help me to truly be open to all people. Grant me a discerning heart so that I can be less prone to judging people by external appearances and more able to see them as you see them. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment