“My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others?” James 2:1
We’ve all done it before. Judged someone based on appearance. We’ve rolled our eyes at that homeless man because he smelled. And snared at that woman who was intoxicated. We’ve taken the time to wonder how great it’d be if that person was not around us. But what would happen if walked in love?
“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” – Hebrews 11:1 NKJV
In order to walk in love you must walk by faith. You have to believe that that person too has an identity and purpose in God. Some are simply blind to it.
I once was lost but now I’m found. Was blind but now I see.
I recall viewing people differently based on their appearance. If a person smelled good and wore nice clothes I’d treat them kinder than someone with a stench who did not have on nice clothes. It was to the point that this habit became instinct.
“These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.” – Matthew 15:8
God has not intended for us to live like that. He sees us all with purpose and great potential. We must look beyond the surface and believe that that person has an identity and purpose in God.
How do we respond when others look at us with hatred in their hearts?
No one likes to be disrespected. It is definitely not preferred. But here are some tactics that you can use in the midst of trying times.
- Stand firm on the word of God. Psalm 119:11
- Stay seated in heavenly places. Don’t stoop down. Ephesians 2:1-7
- Connect with your brothers and sisters for insight and encouragement.
Ask your loving Father to help you walk in love. His mercies are new every morning!
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Life to Your Soul 