From James 2:1-13

The way the world operates consistently asks “what do I get out of it?” There’s always a consideration for how something could benefit us in the future.  If we do something for someone else, very frequently the thought (whether that’s spoken out loud or not) is what they can do for us somewhere down the line.  If we do a job on a volunteer basis, the thought is how that experience or demonstration can give us a leg up in the future.  And if that is such a consistent line of reasoning for us, it shouldn’t really surprise us when there’s a temptation to treat people better if they’re able to respond generously in kind.

James recognized this temptation and made it very clear that it’s inappropriate for that kind of partiality in the church. We should not favor people who are more affluent, we should not favor people who are wealthier – we are called to treat everyone according to the love that Jesus has for them, the love that drove Him to the cross for them. That doesn’t depend on how much influence they have, that doesn’t depend on how much money they have, that doesn’t depend on where they live or who they are friends with.  And if Jesus loves them regardless of all that, so should we.

Focus on God

We are reminded in these verses that God graciously loves us, regardless of our life circumstances.

Function in Our Lives

We are encouraged to reflect Christ’s love to all the people around us.

Topics to Pray About                                                               

• Thank Jesus for His unconditional love for us.
• Confess to God the times where you show partiality.
• Ask the Holy Spirit to conform you to Christ.

In His Service,

J. LeBorious