God Accepts Us As We Are

There's a wonderful story about a Chicago bank that once asked for a letter of recommendation on a young Bostonian being considered for employment. The Boston investment house could not say enough about the young man. His father, they wrote, was a Cabot; his mother was a Lowell. Further back was a happy blend of Saltonstalls, Peabodys, and other of Boston's first families. His recommendation was given without hesitation.

Several days later, the Chicago bank sent a note saying the information supplied was altogether inadequate. It read: "We are not contemplating using the young man for breeding purposes. Just for work."  -Kathleen Peterson.

Why do we show favoritism, or treat some better than others? Perhaps it’s fear. Like when others seem unfamiliar to us. The fear of their differences can lead to misunderstandings. Or, maybe it’s a revelation of sorts. We like to think of others as being like us, and then we're surprised to discover that not everyone is as “normal” as we are!

Maybe it has to do with arrogance, or ignorance. We think of our race, our economic and intellectual standing, our tastes, our looks and even our mind set as the acceptable standard. Thus, when someone doesn't conform to our "standard," (whatever that may be) we form perceptions that make it very difficult for us to see past the surface into the person within ( James 2:1-4). Think you're immune to this? Favoritism, or prejudice, can happen to anyone, anytime, and in any place.

Did you know that across history, there have been numerous stumbling blocks that have separated believers? That's not what Jesus wanted. Many of us grew up in churches in which we felt that our traditions, or our Biblical beliefs were the only right ones; looking down on anyone who wasn't a part of our group. That’s not what Jesus wanted, either. In fact, He prayed in John 17:20: “I’m praying for those who will believe in me.

Our Heavenly Father doesn't play favorites. So, why should we? When you don’t show favorites, you show mercy and God is pleased. Therefore, we are to be free of favoritism because it’s inconsistent with God’s method of loving (James 2:13).

God wants you to treat others without favoritism. Why? Because he wants others to treat you without favoritism. And this, my dear readers, just goes to show how much God cares for you!

Scripture: 2 Chronicles 19:7; Romans 2:11; Galatians 2:6; Ephesians 6:9; Acts 10:34

Prayer: Dear Lord, as our Heavenly Father, who loves all of His children equally, I pray that you always help me to see others as you do. You love each of us as your own. You accept us with all of our faults, infirmities, and sin; no questions asked. There is no other like you; and there never will be. Thank you Lord, for accepting me as I am. Amen

Have a blessed day!

Makinzie