James 2:1, James condemns acts of favoritism. Often we treat a well dressed, impressive-looking person better than someone who looks shabby. We do this because we would rather identify with successful people than with apparent failures. The irony, as James reminds us, is that the supposed winners may have gained their impressive lifestyle at our expense. In addition, the rich find it difficult to identify with the Lord Jesus, who came as a humble servant. Are you easily impressed by status, wealth, or fame? Are you partial to the ‘’haves’’ while ignoring the ‘’have not’s’? This attitude is sinful. God views all people as equals, and If he favors anyone, it is the poor and the powerless. We should follow his example.
James 2:4, Why is it wrong to judge a person by his or her economic status? Wealth may indicate intelligence, wise decisions, and hard work. On the other hand, it may mean only that a person had the good fortune of being born into a wealthy family. Or it can even be a sign of greed, dishonesty, and selfishness. By honoring someone just because he or she dresses well, we are making appearance more important than character. We are often partial to the rich because we mistakenly assume that riches are a sign of God’s blessing and approval. But God does not promise us earthly rewards or riches: in fact, Christ calls us to be ready to suffer for him and give up everything in order to hold on to eternal life. We will have untold riches in eternity if we are faithful in our present life.
James 2:5, When James speaks about the poor, he is talking about those who have no money and also about those whose simple values are despised by much of our affluent society. Perhaps the ‘’poor’’ people prefer serving to managing, human relationships to financial security, peace to power. This does not mean that the poor will automatically go to heaven and the rich to hell. Poor people however, are usually more aware of their powerlessness. Thus it is often easier for them to acknowledge their need for salvation. One of the greatest barriers to salvation for the rich is pride. For the poor, bitterness can often bar the way to acceptance of salvation.
James 2:8,9. We must treat all people as we would want to be treated. We should not ignore the rich, because then we would be withholding our love. But we must not favor them for what they can do for us, while ignoring the poor who can offer us seemingly so little in return.
James 2:10, Christians should not use this verse to justify sinning. We dare to say: ’’Because I can’t keep every command of God, why even try?’’ James reminds us that if we’ve broken just one law, we are sinners. We can’t decide to keep part of Gods law and ignore the rest. You can’t break the law a little bit, if you have broken it at all, you need Christ to pay for your sin. Measure yourself, not someone else against God’s standards. Ask for forgiveness where you need it, and then renew your effort to put your faith into practice.
When you are tempted to get impatient with others.
Think of how patient God has been with you !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Image reference- mikrro.com
GZ/KZ
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