James 2:1-4 My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, 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?
When I read this scripture, I am normally filled with a sense of relief because I know that I am not guilty of this kind of favoritism that James speaks of. I don’t judge a person by the way they are dressed, it has simply never been an issue for me. This may derive from our lack of excess growing up. I had nice clothes, but I also had lots of clothes “on sale” that were never quite in style, but were close.
Today as I read this scripture, the Holy Spirit convicted me of an area where I do show favoritism. It has to do with sin. Although I don’t regard any sin as bigger or worse than another, when it comes to other Christians in my life, I tend to categorize another person’s sin and subconsciously rank it or compare it to the sin in my life. Are they doing worse than I am? Yes? Well that is a relief.
I didn’t realize I was doing this, but today the Holy Spirit laid it all in front of me. I saw how much I compare myself and my sin to others. It took me aback, honestly. I was humbled. I considered myself a person who accepts everyone, so to be made aware of such a shallow behavior was a dose of reality I wasn’t prepared for.
Do you find that you compare your sin to other people? Are you a person who judges others or plays favorites?
Day 50 went by quickly. I made a delicious breakfast with the polenta and cinnamon and maple syrup. The consistency and taste were perfect and it satisfied my craving for pancakes. I still have half a batch of polenta left so I get to eat it again tomorrow.
I also made more pasta salad. I could literally eat it every day and it is because Tessemae’s dressing is so good.
Today was a tiring day. I am trying to wake my tired behind up earlier each day and it makes me very sleepy. I haven’t started walking or running yet. I’m not sure why I can’t find the motivation to do it.
Anyway, time for bed, 6:30 comes early. This is Day 50 losing steam.
Be Blessed!
Living Wholly Holy 