SCRIPTURE:
“I charge you, in the sight of God and Christ Jesus and the elect angels, to keep these instructions without partiality, and to do nothing out of favoritism.”
1 Timothy 5:21
OBSERVATION:
I often think of myself of being fair or at have the intent to be fair. However, as subtle as it might be, do I sometimes bend the rules for those who are likeable or that I have an acquaintance with? Or do I make and justify certain decisions and policies for those that I tend to favor?
APPLICATION:
In politics and business, they refer to the practice as the “Buddy Buddy” system or the “Old Boy Syndrome.” In these circles, these practices are an integral part of doing business and getting things done. In fact, one often seeks to establish these relationships with the knowledge that these practices will come in handy one day to achieve success. It is also in these practices that one is expected to return the favor.
However, in serving and leading in ministry we are called to love, serve, and shepherd all equally and not show favoritism. Favoritism can often lead to “cliques” of exclusive friends. Our relationships are to be based on the pure and loving example of Chris Jesus, who loved, served, and died for all. It can even equate to who we feel called to minister to, help, befriend, and witness to. Why is this so important, there will be those who come to church or in our midst who are need of a friend, or someone to talk to, and be Jesus to them. It can be easy to not see a need to reach out to them.
PRAYER:
Jesus, thank You for revealing Your heart in Your kind and gracious way. You desire that every person would come to know You and be saved. Forgive me for the times I have been ashamed or even silent about this truth. Give me a heart that mirrors Yours. A heart that longs for the salvation of all. Teach me to pray with purpose and passion for others and to be bold in sharing the truth in love. Amen
SCRIPTURE:
“This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.”
1 Timothy 2:3-4
OBSERVATION:
Here Paul reminds me that God’s desire is for every person to be saved and to know the truth. The “truth” in this context points directly to the message of the Gospel, that salvation comes through Christ alone, Ke Akua wale nō. What is good and pleasing to God is prayer for all people because God’s heart includes everyone without exception. God’s love and desire for reconciliation extend to the entire world. His will embraces every nation, tribe, and tongue. Hope is alive for all.
The Apostle also points out that salvation and truth are connected. It is not enough to merely desire goodness or moral living. True salvation comes only by knowing the truth about God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. God's heart is not distant or exclusive. He actively wants people to come into right relationship with Him.
APPLICATION:
Howʻs my heart in these areas? I’m definitely challenged. It is easy to become inward-focused in my faith, thinking mostly about my relationship with God or the community of believers I am part of. But the Word is purposing me to think bigger: God’s desire is for all people to be saved. This includes neighbors, friends, strangers, and even people I might naturally avoid or disagree with.
It also calls me to be faithful in prayer for others, not only for their physical needs but for their salvation and spiritual awakening. I am reminded that when I pray for the lost, I am aligning myself with the very will of God and paying forward the unheard prayers that were made for me. My life should reflect this desire by being open, welcoming, and willing to share the truth of the gospel when the opportunity arises. God's longing for people to know Him should shape my heart and guide my steps.
PRAYER:
Dear Lord, please guide me by the Holy Spirit to see all your children with the eyes that you see them, not greater or lesser; and therefore, not be prone to showing favoritism is befriending, sharing, witnessing, and loving.
