All One in Christ Jesus (Galatians 3:28-29)

Today’s scripture: Galatians 3:28-29

We are “all one in Christ Jesus.”

Read the first verse again. There is no distinction between individuals in God the Father’s eyes. As long as we’re followers of God the Son, Jesus Christ, we are one.

We can—and must—look beyond race, gender, socio-economic background, and see the hearts of our brothers and sisters in Christ. Our faith should transcend everything else that makes us difference.

Think about it. How often have you met a stranger and then, when you found she was a fellow believer, you instantly connected? Wherever we go, we can instantly find kindred spirits in a Bible-believing church.

I just love that!

And then in the next verse, we’re reminded that we’re heirs to God’s promise. And what is that promise? Redeemed hearts and eternity with Him.

We aren’t outcasts. We aren’t distant relatives. We aren’t afterthoughts. We are heirs of God. We are His dearly-loved children.

Take a moment and thank God for His promises. And for His Fatherly love.

No Partiality ... None (Galatians 2:4-6)

Today’s scripture: Galatians 2:4-6

As I meditated on these words and prayed for the Spirit’s words for you, I realized I could focus on a couple of things: false brethren bringing us into bondage; not yielding to those speaking lies; or making certain the gospel remains in us.

But what really caught my eye and touched my heart were the words, “God shows no partiality.”

Stop a moment and read over those words again. “God shows no partiality.” None.

We tend to revere those who are smarter or richer or more talented than we are. Somehow they seem to be better or greater. Even in the Christian community, we look at those such as Billy Graham or Beth Moore or Charles Spurgeon or Paul, and think they’re more spiritual than we are or are closer to God.

God doesn’t see us that way. He doesn’t look at how famous we are or how much money we’ve donated to worthy causes. He doesn’t care if our name has been on the cover of countless books or if we’ve had our own radio or television show.

He cares about our heart. He cares about our motives. Just as Jesus commended the widow for giving all she had (Mark 12:41-44) or the tax-gatherer for his sincere prayer (Luke 18:9-14), God esteems us when we sincerely seek His will. When we give sacrificially—and quietly. When we use the gifts He’s given us to serve Him and others.

Our society—especially in the United States—looks at status, at bank accounts, at notoriety. However, God looks at hearts, at service, at dedication to Him.

It’s comforting to know that God loves me as much as He does anyone else. And He loves you just as much!