We Never Know

It’s human nature to become hyper-conscious of the status of the people with whom we interact.

In fact, most people likely would admit that they roll out the red carpet for the rich, famous, powerful, for the politicians, athletes, movie stars, business owners, generals, authors, and even celebrated ministers. In contrast, we might show no special regard for those at the other end of the scale. These attitudes are as common among believers as nonbelievers.

However, the Bible teaches us that believers are to act differently. At the core is an understanding that the differences we see on the surface such as clothes, homes, titles, and honors really aren’t important to God. What really matters is the heart. As God told Samuel, He doesn’t look “at the outward appearance” but “at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7).

In our flesh we may be inclined to “show hospitality” and favoritism to the rich and famous while ignoring the less fortunate. But the Bible reminds us that we are to “show hospitality” to everyone, even people we don’t know. Why? In part because we really don’t know who they are, or what they will become. They may even be angels!

The Bible tells us that we are to pay the same amount of “special attention to everyone,” even to “a poor man in dirty clothes” (James 2:1-7).

Today, ask God to give you His accepting attitude toward everyone.