ROYAL RULE OF LOVE

RESPECT OF PERSONS

External circumstances and public opinion should not influence the way you treat others. You should see everyone as a potential citizen of the kingdom of God. As you read and reflect on the following scripture think on the following:

Are you a respecter of persons?

How have you shown preference or favoritism?

Do you fulfill the royal law?

James 2:1-9 (KJV)

My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.

For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment;

And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool:

Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?

God is not partial and operates differently - The poor may lack material wealth and riches, but they are rich in faith. God also chooses them, (the down-and-outs), as heirs of the kingdom.

James 2: 5

Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?

Your motives play and important role in your decisions to treat others fairly and equitably. It's a heart matter. One that produces love or favoritism. If your respect is given because you view the rich as more important or perhaps they can influence or be of greater benefit to your establishment than the poor, then you are partial and judges of evil thoughts.

TODAY'S FOCUS: THE MOTIVES OF FAVORITISM

The faith of the Lord Jesus Christ does not require you to have respecter of person whether they are rich or poor. However, as you reflect on the verses above express your opinion of the following questions:

Do you think a drunk and highly intoxicated person should sit next to you in the front row of your church?

Do you think a dirty, smelly, homeless person should be allowed to sit up front with pastors, dignitaries or other distinguished guests?

Would you allow a person who is known as a notorious thief or criminal to be unsupervised or be given special treatment?

Should a backslider or sinner be treated with less respect and honor as the upright saint?

The scripture ask that you should not regard the rich over the poor, the expensively clad to those in rags or disrespect the sinner over the saints. Neither should you segregate or reserve the best for those who can extend courtesies and favors. However you should also use wisdom as not to cause offense or expose others to threats.

In the royal rule of love, you must love and help your neighbors just as much as you love and take care of yourself. Don't play up to the so called important people. The high and mighty may exploit you, while the poor has much faith.

When making decisions in respect to giving respect of persons,ask yourself..

Have I applied the golden rule?

Am I abusing the kingdom citizens or showing favoritism?

If your motives are clean and you are not judging by wealth, status or favoritism then you are not breaking the royal rule.

Remember, the kingdom of God is promised to those who love God. You cannot belong to the Lord Jesus Christ and look down on people who are less privileged. You should not show favoritism to a certain class and not the other because God loves every one equally. It is also wise to use discretion and observe other principles to ensure the safety and well being of others. Do well, and fulfill the royal law of love by doing to others what you would like done to you.

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel