PODCAST

Partiality

June 25th, 2025

Proverbs 24:23-29       

It might seem an obvious statement to say, “To show partiality in judging is not good.” However, we do it often. I recall a time when I was at a grocery store and the person checking out in front of me was buying a lot of processed microwaveable food. My instinct was to think, “That’s terrible for you; you should buy other things.” Then I stopped myself and remembered that there are people who don’t have ovens that work, or who might be living in a motel for a period of time, or maybe never learned how to cook and are doing the best they can. I judged with partiality, with a bias and perspective toward another without seeing the full picture.

This is a small example, but we can see the ways in which justice systems with much bigger issues can be partial as well. How often people with money get away with things that those without means are held responsible for! Some people are judged more harshly than others for all kinds of reasons.

The people of God are called to righteousness, which includes not showing partiality, but fairness and justice. This means examining our own hearts and repenting if necessary.

Author: Robbie Cansler