Monday, July 14, 2014

Marsha's Musings: Treating Poor Christians with Respect (James 2:5-7 KJV)

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? But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats? Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called? (James 2:5-7 KJV)

Paul continues on his topic of discrimination against the poor among church members.  If God has made them heirs of the kingdom of God, then we should not look down upon them.  If we are oppressed and taken to court because we are called Christians (and it is happening with more regularity in the US), and we don't like it, then why should we treat someone who loves God but is poor or different in some way with disdain?

Going over to greet them and then gossiping about how weird or strange they are later at home doesn't count as treating them with respect either. I say this because I have been guilty of this very thing.  Lord, help me to do better next time!

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