Transformational Tip
Jesus doesn’t look at how much we have in our bank account, or how talented we are, or what background we come from. He looks at our heart. He approached corrupt tax collectors, prostitutes, criminals, and adulteresses in such an unpolitically correct way. When you look at people, do you have a worldly point of view or a Christ-like point of view?
A worldly point of view considers how a person looks…what a person possesses or lacks…or who a person knows. Financially well-to-do people may avoid associating with the working class. People in lower income brackets may assume that everyone with money is stuck-up and unkind. But Jesus doesn’t see people on a ledger sheet. He sees each of us as an individual with needs, desires, wounds, and feelings.
Are there people you avoid because of their social or financial standing? Remember that they are God’s creation…just like you. A successful businessperson who seems aloof may need a friend to talk to. Another person might not have the college degrees you have, but could have godly wisdom that would make a difference in your life.
Remember, these people aren’t in your life by mistake. God is perfect and has a great plan to develop you…customized specifically for you. The people in your life come from specific backgrounds, experiences, and cultures…have certain skills and deficits…and do things God knew they would do just to move you closer to the incredible goal God has for you – the mind of Christ and an intimate relationship with God Himself.
Today, take notice of what kind of lenses you use while viewing people. Be intentional to leave the worldly point of view, with all its prejudices and misconceptions, behind. Ask God to help you see people through his eyes and reach out to them with his love.
Click here to share your perspective on your view of people.
Prayer
Dear Father God, help me not to evaluate people by what they have or how they look. Help me to have a Christ-like point of view and to respond to the real person, not what I see on the surface. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who looks beyond my physical body, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Because of this decision we don’t evaluate people by what they have or how they look. We looked at the Messiah that way once and got it all wrong, as you know. 2 Corinthians 5:16
Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct,
1 Peter 1:13-15