The Kingdom

Did you know that favoritism is a sin? I recently attended a bible study on the book of James, taught by Beth Moore.

The second chapter of James begins; “My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism.” Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet” have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? James 2:1-4.

Can you recall a time in your own life when you may have mistreated someone based upon their appearance? I know when I started reading the book of James, I was immediately convicted, and although it is a small book, it has taught me some valuable lessons. I know there are times when I may have shown favoritism to someone without even realizing it. What about you?

We’ve all heard the statement that we should never judge a book by its cover, because the very person that you perceive to be a hindrance could also be the vessel God uses to help strengthen you, teach you valuable lessons or tools God uses to help propel you forward. How has your view of favoritism changed?