Beyond The Cover!

Most of us are probably familiar with the expression, "You can't judge a book by its cover." I have a pretty large personal library containing old and new books on a variety of subjects. I have one book with a beautifully embossed leather cover. It is a book about great teachers throughout history. However, some of the information on Moses as a great teacher and the situation of Egypt from which he brought Israel out, is not in agreement with the Scriptures. Then I have some very plain covered books filled with inspiring truths and their applications drawn from God's Word. The former book I have kept mainly for its cover. The other books I read again and again to feed my focus. Even with the Bible, we must go beyond the cover -- however ornate or plain it might be -- as it is the message contained within that brings the benefit to our life.

Just like a book, we must be careful regarding our quick assessments of the lives of others. James addressed it in this way. . .

"(1) My brothers, SHOW NO PARTIALITY as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory. (2) For if a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in, (3) and if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, 'You sit here in a good place,' while you say to the poor man, 'You stand over there,' or, 'Sit down at my feet,' (4) have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and BECOME JUDGES WITH EVIL THOUGHTS?" ( James 2:1-4 ESV)

How often have you allowed "the clothes" to determine who you were going to sit with or associate at school or some other event? James addressed such a situation existing within the fellowship of Christians and the charge was that of judging with "evil thoughts"! Such quick judgments of others lives based on how they dress is called stereotyping. If we can put people in a box or slot, then perhaps we feel we understand them. Now, stereotyping is defined as being an OVERSIMPLIFIED conception of others. However, recognizing God created all mankind to be not only physical and social beings, but also spiritual, means there is MUCH MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE.

Paul exhorted. . .
"(16) Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight." ( Romans 12:16 ESV)

Let us be careful of over esteeming some while looking down on others. Doing so does not make us any better, but reveals we have a faulty thought process that James called "evil". Let us instead value the significance of the lives of others as we recognize all are a part God's Creation, have the same basic needs, and He ultimately desires a genuine relationship with them for now and eternity. May we fulfill our part in drawing them to Him.

Have a great day STRIVING TO SEE OTHERS AS GOD DOES!
Carl

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