what I learned today

I spent time asking the Lord to really give me understanding of his Word today before I read in James.  His Words just a little too clear for comfort today.  Be careful what you ask for!

This chapter begins by talking about NOT showing partiality.  For instance if both a wealthy Mansfield guy and a homeless maybe smelly guy walked into the room where you were, do NOT show partiality one over the other.

I found this convicting.

It's very easy for me to get involved in helping save cute, helpless orphaned children.  But a homeless man.  I have to be honest about what comes to my sinful mind...

-Well, he probably could work if he tried.  Translation:  I have a good job!
-He should be more responsible.  Translation: He doesn't even try!
-I wonder how he was raised.  Translation:  I could have done a better job raising him!
-His family must have not been responsible people.  Translation:  My family is much better!

...and the judgmental list goes on and on.  That is honest.  And that is how hard my heart can be at times.  How about you?  Which would you choose to talk with?  Eat with? Minister to?

This is a battle that rages within me ever since I worked at the Welfare Department.  I can become cynical and judgmental and unforgiving and ungracious if I don't guard my heart and thoughts continuously with God's help!

James 2:6 "but you have dishonored the poor man.  Are not the rich the ones that oppress you, that drag you into courts?Are they not the ones who blaspheme the honorable name by which you are called?" vs 9 "if you show partiality, you are committing sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors." 

The rich and ungodly are the ones that oppress the believers and always have been.  And so I am counted as one of them if my attitude is partial toward one man over the other.

It is not humanly possible for me to be impartial, I am in desperate need of the Savior every single day.  I have the God breathed Word of God for instruction and it's only through reading it that I can become convicted to follow God more and more.  And as His endless forgiveness washes over me again I thank Him and pray I will be stronger in this area and pleasing in His sight!