Scripture
"'Do not pervert justice; do not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the great, but judge your neighbor fairly." (Leviticus 19:15)
Observation
After setting in place the sacrificial system, God then begins to teach the people how to live a life of forgiveness with obedience so that they would be pleasing to God. In this one verse God instructs the people of Israel to be just by acting and relating in a fair and impartial way to others; that they would not treat the poor or rich different but to treat all fairly. It's very interesting that God would instruct this being that slavery was an integral and common part of society in those times. We also recall that those with titles, rank, position and wealth were treated with the utmost respect and favor. What was God saying then? Perhaps like today He was instructing the people that there will be those with title, rank, position and wealth, however, we can indeed impart a just and fair way or dealing with and relating with one another. We can recall historically of those kings and rich men who treated the poor and needy in a fair, just and often a helpful manner, thereby not only judging their fellow man just and fair but be a blessing to them.
Application
This scripture is a great reminder to me as a leader. Do I show partiality to those that are closer to me, those that can be a benefit to my life or ministry, or those that have rank, title, position or celebrity status? I always go back to my mom's old saying of "the law of the land is self-preservation." Am I guilty at times of thinking of self when relating to people? Have I gone out of my way to spend time and conversation with those that work into my plans and aspirations? As a leader, I know that with people, more is caught then taught, and more is concluded by observation rather then what I say. What example am I setting as a leader in terms of having the character of being just and fair where people look forward to my instruction, direction, counsel and conversation?
Prayer
Lord, thank you for checking my spirit today in being honored and thankful for the mantle you've give me as a father, husband, leader and prayerfully a man after your heart. Thus, I pray that you will impart in me a spirit of justice and fairness in how I treat, lead and relate to those I interact with and lead. May I be mindful to have a heart that seeks the benefit of others rather then what is in it for me and therefore cause me to be self intentional.
