Judged by First Impressions

Scripture:

For suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring, dressed in fine clothes, and a poor man dressed in dirty clothes also comes in.

If you look with favor on the man wearing the fine clothes so that you say, “Sit here in a good place,” and yet you say to the poor man, “Stand over there,” or, “Sit here on the floor by my footstool,”

haven’t you discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?
James 2:2-4


Observation:

This line of thought, continuing from verse one of this chapter, says we are not to show favoritism to those who are (or appear to be) well-off. In showing favoritism, we have set ourselves up as “judges with evil thoughts.” (The NASB says “judges with evil motives.”) Fine clothing does not prove the merit of the inside of the person. Nor does poor clothing. It is important not to make assumptions based on how someone looks or dresses. It’s also important to treat others with respect and kindness regardless of his/her “station” in life....


Application:

Why does James give this topic so much “air time” (so to speak)? Our society today judges people by first impressions on a regular basis. It seems as though this is not a new societal phenomenon - it’s been occurring for millenia.

This phenomenon, however, can stop with us. We can choose today to change. Show kindness. Demonstrate respect. Give empathy. Extend grace. Offer second chances.


Prayer:

Father, this is so much easier said than done. Soften my heart to see when I fall into this societal trap. Forgive me for passing judgment! Give me Your heart for others, I pray!