goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

Favoritism

By Linda Tancs

Playing favorites is a dangerous game. As the apostle James reminds us, it’s a sin (James 2:9). After all, it’s a form of discrimination, or judgment. In one way or another, it’s looking at the outer appearance, whereas, God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). Our goal is to love as God loves. Be merciful, as God is merciful (James 2:13).

***************

As part of FOOT FORWARD MINISTRIES (a teaching and speaking ministry), Go Forward in Faith represents faith-based meditations for personal and professional growth. Join the Facebook group @goforwardinfaith.

goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

Don’t Judge a Book By Its Cover

By Linda Tancs

The expression “don’t judge a book by its cover” means one should not judge the worth or value of something or someone by outward appearance alone. It’s a proclivity as ancient as time itself. Who thought that King David as a youth, the proverbial “runt of the litter,” could slay a giant and ultimately rule a nation? Even his own father doubted his anointing. We may all focus on the outer person from time to time, but God knows what’s on the inside (1 Samuel 16:7). The next time you’re tempted to judge a book by its cover (looks, strength, talent, ability or some other attribute), look a little deeper.

***************

As part of FOOT FORWARD MINISTRIES (a teaching and speaking ministry), Go Forward in Faith represents faith-based meditations for personal and professional growth. Join the Facebook group @goforwardinfaith.

goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

Who Do You Think You Are?

By Linda Tancs

Do you build bridges—or walls? Can you appreciate those who differ from you? Maybe you’re put off by others you encounter in everyday life who may have attributes differing from yours, like body art, piercings or multi-colored hair! Is your office culture homogenous or do you experience diversity? Don’t expect everyone to look, act and think the same way you do. James 2:1 reminds us not to show an attitude of partiality, prejudice or snobbery.

Jesus certainly showed what it means to broaden your circle of inclusion. To the shock of his Jewish compatriots, He associated with Samaritans, Romans and pagans, after all. Think of all the interpersonal conflict and war that has ensued over differences in ethnicity, cultural practices and gender, among other things. You need only read the daily paper for examples.

The best way to build bridges is to have a right heart attitude. 1 Samuel 16:7 exhorts us to see and think about other people the way God does—by looking at what’s on the inside. Then you’ll begin to view those you encounter as assets rather than potential liabilities.