Pastor’s Bible Reading Schedule: Exodus 31-33; James 2
Devotional Thought:
When we think of the many attributes of God, there is one that is often not mentioned – impartial. It is unfortunate that we as humans are so bent on jockeying for positions of influence or special favors that we begin to think God can be influenced this way. From the elementary student who gives his teacher an apple, to the employee who does a little extra on the job, to the lobbyist who leaves a nice gift for the lawmaker – all are striving to get a little extra attention or favor. It is important for us to realize that God does not reward people in that fashion. God rewards obedience and faithfulness. God never has favorite children, who always seem to do right, or preferred people who seem to cause him little frustration or concern. The problem of favoritism or partiality is that it appeals to the selfishly nature of humans. God has no such nature and is not swayed in His dealing with people for good or bad. God is driven by the principles of His character and the attributes of His person. The goal for us as Christians is to emulate Christ and His person as we grow in grace. We need to learn to be governed by the principles of scripture and not swayed by the personalities and pressure of those around us. The end of this chapter really deals with the issue of our behavior following our faith. The illustration of showing partiality is proving our lack of faith in God’s principles and the need to cater to our own selfishness. What I do in response to the actions of others must be dependent upon what God’s word says and how my actions will please or displease God. My actions, attitude, and the atmosphere I create must be pleasing to God not more comfortable or convenient for me. If someone needs help, it is an opportunity God has placed on my way to bring glory to Him and exercise His program. Helping them should have nothing to do with how they have treated me in the past, what they can do for me in the future, or what people may think in the present. The question is what does God want me to do according to His word.
Personal
• Lord, please help me to see people as you do. Help me to be sensitive to their needs and seek to meet them according to your word.
• Lord, thank you for loving me perfectly. I am thankful that I am not compared to others, but rather that my life is measured by your word. Please help me to live in obedience to your word.
• Lord, help me grow in my faith. Help me not to be so short sighted that I cannot trust your plan and timing in all things.