Do We Favor the Rich?

For those of you new to Free Money Finance, I post on The Bible and Money every Sunday. Here's why.

Here's an interesting piece of Scripture I was reading the other day (James 2:1-9, NLT):

My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others?

For example, suppose someone comes into your meeting dressed in fancy clothes and expensive jewelry, and another comes in who is poor and dressed in dirty clothes. If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, “You can stand over there, or else sit on the floor”—well, doesn’t this discrimination show that your judgments are guided by evil motives?

Listen to me, dear brothers and sisters. Hasn’t God chosen the poor in this world to be rich in faith? Aren’t they the ones who will inherit the Kingdom he promised to those who love him? But you dishonor the poor! Isn’t it the rich who oppress you and drag you into court? Aren’t they the ones who slander Jesus Christ, whose noble name you bear?

Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the Scriptures: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” But if you favor some people over others, you are committing a sin. You are guilty of breaking the law.

Ouch.

Is he talking to me? Unfortunately, I think so.

Our society as a whole tends to favor the rich over others. People with nice cars, big homes, and the finer things in life get extra perks and privileges. They get the better seats and all that goes with them. They are different (in a good way) and thus given preference.

The poor, on the other hand, are often despised and ignored. They are often seated in the back or aren't even invited to events. They don't get the nicer seats and extra perks. They are different (in a bad way) and thus shunned.

This is the standard all across America. Even in our churches. Maybe "especially in our churches" since such organizations survive on donations. It's not supposed to be this way and those in authority (pastors) generally don't want it to be this way -- but it often is.

And, like I said, it's true in my life as well. Just like most others, I judge books by their covers and give preference to those who are perceived to be more "well off" or "like me." Sure, I give to organizations that help the poor, but when it comes to actually meeting and dealing with poor people, they get to play second fiddle.

I don't have a solution for this issue other than I need to try and love my neighbor as myself -- with "neighbor" being anyone, no matter their financial situation.

I know it's an introspective post, but it's meant to be that way. Maybe you're in a similar situation to me. If so, perhaps the Scripture above will inspire you to better things. If you're not in a similar state as I am, then good for you. Keep on loving and honoring people no matter how much they make or own.

Comments

[Rob Ward]

So true. It's easy to look at someone not as well off and wonder, "What did they do to be in that position?" And although there are plenty of people that put themselves in a bad position because of their decisions, that isn't necessarily the case for everyone.

My church has been going through James this summer. Very good, convicting stuff.

[JLP]

I love the book of James.

I think society in general favors the "rich" or at least those we consider celebrities. Think about how many shows and magazines that are dedicated solely to movies stars and musicians.

I'd be willing to bet that if I was waiting for a table at a restaurant and a celebrity walked in, I'd have to wait until the celebrity had their table...lol.