For God does not show favoritism.
Thoughts for Today:Paul wasn't the only one to have this revelation. Remember Peter's words spoken from the centurion Cornelius' home in Acts: 10:34-35, "I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right." Or in the King James Version: "Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons. But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him." In other words, God doesn't care who you are, the color of your skin, where you were born, or anything else. All He is concerned about is the condition of your heart.
Cornelius "feared God and did what was right." It was a good beginning point, but even that wasn't enough. So God sent Peter to tell him about Jesus. Acts 10:44-48, "While Peter was still speaking these words [telling the Gospel story], the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles. For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God. Then Peter said, 'Can anyone keep these people from being baptized with water? They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have.' So he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ." Isn't that a beautiful picture? Our Lord pouring out His grace, mercy and love upon all those who come to Him -- no matter who we are or where we are from. The only thing anyone ever needs to do is to earnestly seek Him.
Questions to Ponder:Do you think Christianity is an exclusive club reserved for only privileged people? Think again. Both Paul and Peter realized: "God does not show favoritism." Do you feel unworthy to receive the gift of eternal life? Jesus is the great equalizer. Jesus said in Matthew 11:28, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Jesus didn't qualify His statement or list a bunch of exclusions -- He only asks for us to come to Him. That's an offer for everyone including you and me. God does not prefer one person over another or show any sort of favoritism. Will you come?