In 1 Corinthians 12:23-24, the apostle Paul reminds us that those members of the body, which we think to be less honorable, upon these we bestow more abundant honor; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness. For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honor to that part which lacked.(KJV) So not only should we be willing to associate with anyone, we actually should be willing to give extra attention to those who need it most. Isn't that a beautiful picture of God's love and grace? In fact, isn't that what God did with us?

Let's go out of our way to befriend others!

We are told by James, the brother of Jesus, not to practice favoritism in welcoming people into our church assembles. (James 2:1-9) The apostle Paul says that we should be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. (Romans 12:16 KJV) No one of us is better than the other. We are all sinners, saved by grace or we are a sinner not yet saved by grace. Jesus was a great example for us. He spent time with tax collectors, sinners, common people, diseased people, and prostitutes as well as religious leaders, teachers, disciples, and believers.

The next time we see someone excluded, shunned, or left out, let's go out of our way to befriend that person and show him or her, the unconditional love of Jesus. Let's show them abundant honor. After all, they are of eternal value to God, so that person should be equally valued by us.

 

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© 2005 Mike Barres.

Title: "Those Less Welcome?"
Author: Mike Barres
Publication Date: January 02, 2005

Two Hearts Praying as One by Dennis and Barbara Rainey "Praying together may be the single most important spiritual discipline you and your spouse will ever share," say the Raineys--it reduces conflicts and safeguards marriages from divorce.

Mike is a pastor and writer for a number of online publications.

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