What are the dangers of favoritism according to Proverbs 28:21? Verse in Focus “ To show partiality is not good—yet a man will do wrong for a piece of bread.” (Proverbs 28:21) What Favoritism Looks Like • Favoritism, or partiality, is the practice of treating people differently based on status, wealth, appearance, or influence (James 2:2-4). • Scripture repeatedly brands it sinful because it violates God’s own impartial character (Deuteronomy 10:17; Acts 10:34). Danger #1: Compromise for Crumbs • “A man will do wrong for a piece of bread.” The bribe is tiny, yet integrity collapses. • Even small perks—recognition, convenience, social approval—can tempt us to bend judgment. • Luke 16:10 reminds us, “He who is faithful in very little is also faithful in much.” If I sell righteousness cheap, I advertise that my price can always be met. Danger #2: Eroded Integrity and Trust • Partial decisions teach observers that honesty is negotiable. • Once credibility is gone, influence diminishes (Proverbs 22:1). • Relationships fracture because people doubt whether we will treat them fairly. Danger #3: Injustice Invites Divine Judgment • Proverbs 24:23 warns, “It is not good to show partiality in judgment.” God labels it evil, and He actively opposes it. • Isaiah 10:1-3 shows God’s severe response to leaders who favor the powerful: calamity, distress, and no place to hide. • Romans 2:11 bluntly states, “For there is no partiality with God.” Align with Him or face His correction. Danger #4: Harm to the Vulnerable • Favoritism usually benefits the strong and injures the weak (Leviticus 19:15). • James 2:6 says, “Is it not the rich who oppress you?”—partiality empowers the very people most likely to exploit others. • The poor are denied justice, multiplying poverty and resentment. Danger #5: Corrupting Influence Spreads • Sin rarely stays contained; it seeps into systems, families, churches, and governments (1 Corinthians 5:6). • When leaders are biased, followers imitate, and societal rot accelerates (Micah 7:3-4). Living the Principle Today • Examine motives before every decision: Am I influenced by status, wealth, or familiarity? • Practice equal treatment in daily interactions—speak, serve, and listen without prejudice. • Cultivate accountability; invite others to challenge any hint of favoritism. • Anchor identity in Christ, not in the approval of influential people (Galatians 1:10). • Celebrate God’s impartial grace, extending that same grace to everyone we encounter. |
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