FAVORITISM FORBIDDEN
My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus, don't show favoritism. Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby 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?
Listen, my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom He promised those who love Him? But you have insulted the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court? Are they not the ones who are slandering the noble name of Him to whom you belong?
If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, "Love your neighbor as yourself", you are doing right. But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers. For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it. For he who said, "Do not commit adultery," also said, "Do not commit murder." If you do not commit adultery but DO commit murder, you have become a lawbreaker.
Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment! James 2:1-13 (NIV)
COMMENTARY FROM STUDY BIBLE
The Life Application Study Bible has a lot to say on these verses, including:
"Why is it wrong to judge a person by his or her economic status? Wealth may indicate intelligence, wise decisions, and hard work. On the other hand, it may mean only that a person had the good fortune of being born into a wealthy family. Or it can even be the sign of greed, dishonesty, and selfishness.
We are often partial to the rich because we mistakenly assume that riches are a sign of God's blessing and approval. But God does not promise us earthly rewards or riches; in fact, Christ calls us to be ready to suffer for him and give up everything in order to hold on to eternal life.
When James speaks about the poor, he is talking about those who have no money and also about those whose simple values are despised by much of our affluent society. Perhaps the "poor" people prefer serving to managing, human relationships to financial security, and peace to power. This does not mean that the poor will automatically go to Heaven and the rich to Hell. Poor people, however, are usually more aware of their powerlessness. Thus it is often easier for them to acknowledge their need for salvation."
FAMILY MOTTO
Years ago, I learned that some folks developed a motto for their lives. I thought that was a good idea, so I developed one for me and my family: "People before profit, relationships before possessions." Rare is the time that anyone said they needed something that I had and walked away empty handed.
My bank account may not be the fattest in the country, but, looking in the mirror, I sleep very well at night. Make no mistake, I am not saying I'm perfect. I make bad choices just like the next guy. When I do, though, I pick myself up, focus on Jesus, and try again. You only fail when you quit trying, right?
How about you? Would you like the "peace that transcends all understanding"? Would you like to sleep better at night? Cast your cares upon Jesus. He is the Prince of Peace.
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