James 2:1-13

Day 11

Observations

Listen, my beloved brothers, has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to those who love him?

But if you show partiality, you are committing sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors. For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become guilty of all of it. 

For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.

James 2:5‭, ‬9‭-‬10‭, ‬13 ESV

Meaning

• God shows no partiality when it comes to faith and his kingdom - just because you are rich in this world doesn't mean God will treat you better and give you more faith. In fact, it is the poor who he gives faith to
• When we show partiality we are in fact sinning - and thus are convicted of sinning. We have failed the whole law because this is part of the law
• We should show mercy because if we don't show mercy we won't be shown mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgement

Application

• I often do things or favour people who I think I'll like or who are able to benefit me. But God says to show no favour to one person over another simply because of what I can get out of it
• Show mercy instead of judgement - I'm often quick to judge and very slow to give mercy

Prayer points:

1. I would not be judgemental and bitter at others, but instead try and show the same mercy that I've been shown through Christ