Partiality is something that plagues our society. We see it everywhere we go— whether it be in the workplace, at school, or even within our own families. It can be difficult to avoid falling into the trap of favoritism, but luckily, God has a lot to say on the matter.
In the eyes of the Lord, all people are equal. He does not show favoritism or partiality to anyone, no matter how wealthy or powerful they may be.
In His Word, God tells us that we are to treat others with fairness and respect, not giving preference to those who are well-off or can do us favors. When we show partiality, we are sinning against Him and failing to love our neighbor as ourselves. Let us instead strive to always act justly, fairly, and without favoritism, following the example set for us by our Lord and Savior.
If you need a bit of a nudge, these bible verses will remind you to be fair in your treatment of others:
Acts 10:34-35 NIV
Then Peter began to speak: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right.”
Galatians 3:28 NIV
There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
Deuteronomy 10:17 NIV
For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality and accepts no bribes.
James 2:1 NIV
My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism.
1 Timothy 5:21 NIV
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.
Leviticus 19:15 NIV
Do not pervert justice; do not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the great, but judge your neighbor fairly.
Deuteronomy 1:16-17 NIV
And I charged your judges at that time, “Hear the disputes between your people and judge fairly, whether the case is between two Israelites or between an Israelite and a foreigner residing among you. Do not show partiality in judging; hear both small and great alike. Do not be afraid of anyone, for judgment belongs to God. Bring me any case too hard for you, and I will hear it.”
Colossians 3:25 NIV
Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism.
Romans 2:11 NIV
For God does not show favoritism.
James 3:17 NIV
But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.
