Leviticus 19:15 (KJV)
Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment: thou shalt not respect the person of the poor, nor honour the person of the mighty: but in righteousness shalt thou judge thy neighbour.
The Scripture clearly emphasizes the importance of treating others with fairness and righteousness. It urges us to reject unrighteousness in judgment and to extend equal respect to both the poor and the powerful. At the foot of Mount Sinai, six weeks after the exodus from Egypt, Moses stands with a newly liberated people who have just embraced God’s covenant. They have tasted freedom from slavery and now require a robust legal and moral code to unite them as a nation of formerly enslaved individuals. The Israelites are being shaped into a “holy” people, set apart to reflect God’s very heart. True justice embodies God’s character, steadfast, unbiased, and grounded in truth, as He is the ultimate Judge: unbribable, impartial, and utterly righteous. When Israel established this law, they were charged with mirroring His heart in every dispute, from border conflicts to family disagreements. In a culture often marred by bribery, clan loyalty, and fear of retaliation, God commands a profoundly different approach. By calling His people to uphold impartial justice, He asserts that holiness extends far beyond ritual; it permeates every social interaction.
As Christians, the Bible challenges us to refuse favoritism and judge others by God’s righteousness alone. It’s clear that any expression of favoritism is wrong and likely to produce disastrous consequences. Whenever we show favoritism, we adopt an approach at odds with our Father’s character. Justice is not confined to the courtroom; it encompasses how we speak about others, evaluate claims, and assess their worth in the eyes of God. God does not show favoritism and is impartial towards all individuals, affirming that His judgment is fair and equitable for everyone. Romans 2:11 says, “For there is no respect of persons with God.” If the King of kings doesn’t play favorites, we, as His ambassadors, shouldn’t either. Whenever we show favoritism, we adopt an approach that is contrary to our Father’s character. Our bias toward wealth, beauty, education, or background can erect walls that fragment the body of Christ and stunt our witness. Those in positions of judgment must transcend their preconceptions to truly grasp the issue at hand with impartiality and objectivity. This principle extends to our social interactions in the workplace, educational settings, and community life. Leaders are tasked with the responsibility of being fair judges and must address injustices head-on. When we observe unfairness in the workplace, it is not only appropriate but imperative to get involved. Proactively standing up for those who are mistreated is a fundamental duty of God’s holy people.
Beloved, God is not partial, nor does He show favoritism. As a true believer, it is essential to embrace equality without discrimination. Do not judge others based on their race, economic status, or profession; instead, uphold the royal law of our Lord Jesus Christ, who treats us all equally regardless of our standing. In Christ Jesus, we are all equal, and it is our duty to honor and respect one another accordingly. Let the love of God be the guiding force in your heart, surpassing all else. Follow Jesus’ unwavering example of extending God’s love to everyone. When you are called to give a testimony, resist the temptation of biased testimony, as it can have dire consequences for the accused. In righteousness, judge your neighbor, for true judgment flows from God’s holy character, not your assumptions. Resist the urge to judge others by your standards or show favoritism toward those you prefer. Cultivate the habit of treating everyone with kindness and respect. Regardless of our background, whether it be wealth, social status, education, or acceptance, what unites us all is that God’s grace has saved us. Embrace this truth and act on it with confidence! Remember, justice isn’t an abstract ideal but a daily choice—to listen longer, serve without the spotlight, and weigh others by truth.
O Lord, empower me to follow Your example and let my life be a living courtroom where Your righteousness always presides in Jesus’ Name.