Monday, November 11, 2024

You and I have met a lot of people but listen. Only one of them has changed my life!

True value in life doesn’t come from sideling up to those with bucks. It doesn't come from front-runnin', from hobnobbing among, from rubbing shoulders with, or from mingling with celebrities. 

It doesn't come from "partying with," from budding-up-to, from hanging out with the wealthy folk, or with the powerful individuals called "the influencers"—it comes from a relationship with the King of all kings, Jesus Christ. 

You already know this right!? 

Could be learn some things from, or gain good ideas from rich and poor people? Sure we can. 

Jesus said, "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:25-32 nkjv 

Sure, Christ can teach each of us if we'll let him. He is the only man who has ever transformed my life. Do you firsthand know of God's love experientially? You can! 

Time with Him is so valuable! 

In our society we've actually seen people die trying to gain selfies because they want so badly to become rich and famous ..as an "influencer." People are hurting and many are dying for love or comfort

While those of today's society often eagerly chase after influence, after fame, and after wealth ..or the wealthy (while wanting more wealth), it’s meeting Christ in a personal way and obeying him that has brought genuine fulfillment to me. I was raised in a dead religious church and wanted to earn his favor. Have I always known and obeyed Him? No. I was born needing to become born again. I wish I could say I have known and obeyed God -- he's blessed me when I have. 

I'm still far from perfect like He of course is perfect, but I am interested in growing spiritually as I walk with Christ daily. Have a ways to go. Are you intrigued with knowing the Lord? I want to give you his words to help you. Mine can't save anyone. God we want to be with you, and know you, to love you better, and obey you more. Help us by your words

How can we talk about this too much? Free forgiveness is such a wonderful gift!

Knowing Jesus brings an incomparable type of richness into a person's life. God is indeed rich. He is mindful of the lowly and he's no respecter of persons meaning He doesn't play favorites (except all His kids are his favorites).  

Walking with Christ brings so much good into a life that it's hard to describe with words. A richness that far exceeds any worldly riches, or status, title or name this world could offer to us.

Have you ever noticed how some people feel their personal worth will either rise or fall based on the company that they keep? 

That's why I wanted to say something here. In a world where status and "high-profile-connections" seem to define a person’s value, please remember this: your own worth comes from Christ alone. God made you with great value. Yes, before you had said or done anything good at all you are valuable! You matter to God! 

Photo by Halbergman

His free grace is worth more than money can buy -- isn't about earning anything good from Him. Jesus is the giver of life and we can't outgive Him! 

The gospel is SO uplifting! All the way through! God's grace elevates us beyond anything that fame, that wealth or that status could achieve. 

My life has been kind of different in some ways. You've met many and me too. While a fulltime pastor in a couple Lands, while teaching in 28 Lands, and while working in the hospitality arena.. I’ve have the privilege to talk with up and outers and down an outers. I've met some notable people in my life (of course nowhere near like others in Hollywood have), but it’s knowing the King of Kings that has been truly meaningful! This has shaped my life, my character, and my outlook more than anything else. Yes, He Jesus has done that. As I pray, he still does that. He works in me both to will and to do of his good pleasure. 

Please meet God and His Son today. Sure, you can right now. Repent, believe, accept, and receive Him into your person as Lord and Savior. 

That's the most important decision you will ever make. Then meet some decent growing Christian role-modeles too. Sometimes we need Jesus with skin on right!? 

Like the Apostle Paul said, “Follow me as I follow Christ”—it’s about finding Jesus, and then finding role models who walk closely with the Lord, not ones who simply shine in the eyes of the world. Shine, reflect the light of Chrsit out. 

So, how do we walk with Christ while also engaging those of this world? With wisdom, kindness and integrity, honoring their privacy and never flaunting "connections" or trying to make connections for self-gain. We are called to reflect the light of Jesus, our ultimate leader, whose glory and influence surpass all. And when we know Him deeply, we become conduits of His love to both the “high” and “lowly” in our society.

The Bible is clear about pursuing lasting treasures, and laying them up in heaven. 

Jesus Himself lived a no-compromise life. He turned down opportunities for earthly fame and monetary gain (see Matthew 4:1-11). He instead chose to serve others. He chose the Father's will, humility -- yes, living only to glorify his Father up in heaven, as Philippians 2:5-8 tells us. In return, God “exalted Him to the highest place,” reminding us that true elevation comes from above.

In God's economy, the way up is down (like in serving) and the way down is to put yourself up. (God might allow those who promote themselves by stepping on other people to get away with it for a little while, but they will reap what they have sown).  

Consider Joseph, who didn’t pursue status, wealth or power; he simply trusted God and served, whether in Potiphar’s house or in the prison house. In time, God brought him to a position of great influence, but only as Joseph faithfully followed God’s direction with no-compromise, rather than following after his own ambition (Genesis 37-41). Paul, likewise, set aside his accomplishments for “the sake of Christ,” understanding that fame without purpose in God’s kingdom is SO meaningless (Philippians 3:7).

Knowing God and doing his will his way.. right there in the Father's will is what matters. 

The people of this world are preoccupied with fame and fortune, but Jesus calls us to prioritize heavenly treasures. The Bible instructs us, “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things [the necessities of life] will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33). God knows what we need before we even ask, and He promises to provide when we ask and focus on Jesus as Lord.

For those who desire to get close to those having fame, or wealth, or power and influence, God would caution:

"Be not deceived: 'Evil associations corrupt good manners.'” 1 Corinthians 15:33

I want to limit my time with evil people (with lost folk, with worldly people, and with carnal Christians), and spend time daily with the Lord and with mature believers. Sure I want to win the lost, plant seeds, water seeds and help people grow.. but without being pulled down. This is what God wants me to want. 

The church needs to infiltrate, not hibernate or isolate without being pulled down! We can reach those of our culture with the gospel -- we Christians must go where people are, speak their language (clean) without spending so much time that we fall into temptations and sin.

Rather than isolating ourselves from those who God loves and died for, and not share our faith with any.. let's boldly go and share the gospel. 

We’re called to tactfully engage with them, to with dicernment “infiltrate” rather than “isolate.” Jesus exemplified this lifestyle beautifully, going where sinners (like me) were and meeting them at their point of need.

Throughout the Gospels, we see how Jesus Christ was praying and powerfully reaching out to people from all backgrounds and walks of life. You can be a witness at work or off duty! 

Yes, Christ was adapting his approach to each individual’s unique background and circumstances. With religious Nicodemus, a respected religious teacher, Jesus spoke directly to his need for humble spiritual rebirth. In contrast, with the Samaritan woman, who was burdened by her past sins and seen as an outsider, He engaged her in a gentle, patient, caring conversation, opening a door to grace and transformation her. In each case, Christ showed that reaching others requires more than just being present—it takes real empathy, ears, and genuine care.

Before we can truly reach others, we must first pray in faith and then care about them. We share when we care. 

Sometimes, we may hesitate to share our faith because we lack that deep compassion for others’ souls. That's when we pray more cuz Jesus never lacks care. We might distance ourselves, assuming that their spiritual destiny is solely their own responsibility. But love compels us to do more--Jesus said GO, so how can we say NO? If we genuinely care, we’ll naturally want to help others see the hope we’ve found in Jesus.

Engaging with those outside the church isn’t about compromising spiritually, I mean with our values or even silencing our beliefs. There is a time to speak. 

Rather, it’s about living out our faith in a way that is both visible and inviting, showing others what it means to follow Jesus. When we care deeply about others, we’ll find ourselves more willing to listen, to share, and to connect. And in those moments, God can use us as His instruments, reaching others through the example of a life regenerated and transformed by His love.

For those who desire fame, wealth, or influence, God would caution us: “People who long to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction” (1 Timothy 6:9, nlt). 

True security lies not in possessions or fame but in a heart aligned with and forgiven by Christ.

As we grow in faith, our circle matters more. “Bad company corrupts good morals,” yet surrounding ourselves with faithful people of the word strengthens us in godliness. Like Elisha learning from Elijah, and the disciples walking with Jesus, or even Timothy strolling with Paul, we find inspiration in mature godly companionship, not in the unholy empty pursuit of fame, worldly power or fortune.

Ultimately, our call is not to seek popularity but to glorify God! If God grants wealth or recognition, fine. He does so for His purposes, not for our self-promotion. Everything we receive is a blessing from Him for a purpose, a chance to honor Him (Ecclesiastes 2:24-25). If he blesses you due to his love, he also has others in mind (meditate upon Psalm 67). 

May our lives echo the love, grace and truth of Jesus. Let’s carry His gospel tp the end of the earth, and speak of his fame, truth and honor, delighting in knowing the One who is most worth knowing. Let’s abide in Him, and seek to share the Good News with every person we meet, and recognize this as an extraordinary privilege. We called to be the Father's children—whether the world knows our name or not.

Some of my friends (not close friends) have acted like it's the highest point of their lives when they get to meet the richest of the rich, the most famous of the world's famous. Sadly, more so than when they meet anyone else. 

In Dallas we have often worked for and around wealthy influential actors, gifted entertainers, and some world leaders--we must have right thinking please. How did it start for us? We simply needed work back in the days when we were going through and trying to pay for our college, but let's keep our priorities straight.  

Many individuals view themselves as actually gaining value as a human due to who they meet or know (especially if it's a celeb, a musician like a rockstar, classical performer, or hip hip singer or politician ), but that's worldly. Some seek to parlay this and use their experience for self-gain and promotion. That's so typical, but stop it. 

The only one who has changed my life is Jesus Christ, and he can your. You need not idol. Knowing him has made all the difference for me and my Chrsitian buds. 

My value hasn't increased by meeting or knowing stars and a handful of world leaders any. Some of these people are despicable worldly reprobates really. Fact. 

I remember meeting some golly men like A.W. Criswell who has given me wise words and some great memories listening to him. All of us Christians have met the Lord and He is one that really elevates. He is the One who edifies and adds value to our lives daily. He is the One that saves anyone willing, and can actually better our lives. 

Do we esteem and show respect for other believers, even honoring them? Do we consider their interests before our own interests? Do we want to be close to, and around people who are walking closely with the Lord and are fruitful?




I want to be around Jesus most, don't you..yes, worshiping him only. No idols, no time for that. 

Of course, there are people that we want to emulate -- their lives seem to set forth such a good example to follow. The apostle Paul said follow me as I follow Christ. Can you or I with good conscience also voice that? 

Jesus is the ultimate famous One to follow, the wealthiest and most influential Leader, the King, the One that I have met and have walked with.. that you can also meet today! Perhaps you have already, or need to return. Come to Him! 

What's my message in a nutshell? Meeting the world's elite, wealthy and famous hasn't made me a better person, but meeting the King of all Kings has greatly changed and improved my life. 

So many things in my life have been fascinating to observe. There's so many things that we all can learn from.. even from fools (like what not to do or say or think) as well as learn from the wise (what to think, what to say, what to do, what not to do).

Let's be spiritual instead of carnal. I always want to use great discretion, to honor their privacy, and not be a front-runner or name-dropper using anything of others for self-gain.. or for self-aggrandizement and selfish promotion.

Please know well the most famous one -- God! Yes, he indeed is the most famous, influential and wealthy one. And he's approachable! 

Let's know well the correct etiquette, demeanor, attitude -- I mean the thoughtful behavior to consistently exhibit around God. Let's live biblically. He appreciates obedience, and when His kids seek to be a blessing for Him and for others. 

I really don't want, as a Christian, to offend anyone, but I mostly don't want to offend the Lord. Let's live thoughtful and considerate lives, first for Him and then to help others. That's what being a good witness is all about. Let's brag on Jesus all the more, and make him more famous than he's been. Yes, until our lost friends come to Him on his terms. Let's make him well known throughout the whole world -- with the high-profile folks and with the lowly. God cares about everyone! 





Over the years I have never asked for an autograph, but I have kept some records. Many pages of names and perhaps a bit of documentation of what happened when I met some of these folk to remember the good things they said. 

With almost all the people I felt happy to meet them. Sure, I might learn something, or have a chance to positively influence here. 

With some, I did not really have any desire to meet them. Being honest. With liberal politicians, or liberal theologians and TV preachers who have given the gospel a black eye so to speak (like on TV) I simply had no desire to meet them. I have met several of them, and was asked questions too. I remember sharing the gospel (not a little bit or a mere verse) with Michael Jackson in Dallas. What a joy! Not sure if he responded later on.  

I consider all our guests at my home or in other locations VVIPs. Do you value meeting and serving new people too? Do you view each of those moments as a very very important encounter?

Believer, have you valued your time at church with the believers a whole lot, or personally devalued that time? Where do you go to church? Many or most in some churches.. of those people will live forever with you! 

I have felt honored, thrilled and delighted to meet some world-changers at times (not star-struck like cuz their are brothers and sisters). I feel thrilled though to meet fruitful and godly prayers, some good examples (soul winners) and I want to become like them with fruit that abides too. 

I try to think up good questions fast, or Bible questions. I remember the joy of meeting Chuck Smith Sr a couple times (he says: Hold the course.. in the word). Remember helping Greg Laurie out for some months with three of his Harvest America's here in Dallas (a laid back normal brother). Jack Graham has been such a blessing. The Lord and Jack really helped Greg out him with those outreaches, and Jesus saved huge crowds at all three. He gets the glory.  

Dan Southern, a friend who was the Advance-man, a personal assistant and close friend of Billy Graham. Can you imagine hearing him answer some questions? I'd ask him lots of questions too just to learn.

Hey, I'm a nobody but I've met Somebody and that's why I write about Jesus! It's because I now want to tell everybody about this Somebody who can make any nobody like me into a somebody for His glory.

Do you feel like a nobody? Welcome! If you too are considered a nobody guess what.. God knows who you are, where you live, and the number of hairs you have or lack on top of your head. He made you, HE loves you and He has a purpose for your life.

Man, I would feel so honored to serve with you in trying to clearly tell everybody about this Somebody (Jesus Christ) who can save anybody on any day of the week! Let's join Him in world-changing.

To be a friend of, or even a friend of a Friend who is fruitful -- that can be so beneficial for the kingdom. What's your influence like and who is it impacting this month or day? There's a watching World out there observing what you say, do and think.. and how you do that.

For some years I was the full-time assistant of a best-selling Christian author and used to drive him around when he asked me to. I used to get his newsletters and other writings out in a timely fashion. I've asked lots of questions of many, all the time like when I was driving.




If the person is advancing the Kingdom of God by faith and being used of God to win people, then I want to ask, to learn from, to help them out! I want to prioritize all their meetings that they want me at. If I can make it there, I will be on the front row.

Once I met the pastor of the largest church in the world. I didn't know that much about him or the church, but I served Paul Yungi Cho aka David Yonggi Cho (a South Korean). I asked and listened. Bible questions are needed much! I remember riding an elevator with him and another Christian and then helping him with his laundry. If you can carry their bags, go for it. Serve the saved and the lost. 

Listen, we become like the people we hang around with right. You with wise men can become wise but you as a close companion of fools will indeed suffer harm. Choose to pursure righteousness, faith, love and peace with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart

"Don’t let yourselves be deceived. Talking about things that are not true is bound to be reflected in practical conduct. Come back to your senses, and don’t dabble in sinful doubts. Remember that there are men who have plenty to say but have no knowledge of God. You should be ashamed that I have to write like this at all!" 1 Corinthians 15:33

Bad close companions can corrupt good morals, but good company with Jesus first is what's best for you. 

Yes, God's people can be such a blessing for you, and having God's as your close company is simply unbeatable! 

Elisha walked with, learned from, and hung around with Elijah. Smart! Christ's disciples walked with Jesus (smartest ever, still is). All the disciples except Judas gained salvation, lots of knowledge, wisdom and good experience from that time so close to Christ. Timothy hung around the Apostle Paul, a soul winner and he too was a soul-winning pastor.








Was Jesus rich and becoming more wealthy when we walked on this earth? Many TV preachers say he was, but he wasn't. 





Those of this world needs to see Jesus and see Jesus in me!

In the midst of a stormy night, a little boy lay trembling, calling out to his father for comfort. “Daddy, I’m scared. Come in here, please.” His dad, already tucked in for bed, reassured him, saying, “It’s all right, son. God is with you in that room. You’re OK.” There was a brief silence, and then the boy’s voice broke through again: “Dad, right now I need someone with skin on.”

This simple but heartfelt cry basically captures a truth many of us feel—sometimes, we need to experience God up close, in a way that feels real and tangible. People need God, but they also need to see the Lord working through you.

In a world full of gods made by human hands and imaginations, each with their own supposed teachings, only Jesus truly bridges heaven and earth. He is the only living Word, the exact representation of God the Father, yep, wrapped in human form—He is God with “skin on.”

He didn’t come as some remote far away deity, but as the One who lived, breathed, and walked among us. Jesus came to seek and save all who are lost, from the wealthiest to the most impoverished. I was one of those lost, and finding Him had made all the difference. I love Jesus!

This is what makes Jesus unique: He wasn’t merely some man striving to become a god; He is God who chose to become a man right here. He held unimaginable power, fame, and wealth, yet He laid it all aside to come walk with us.

Too many with limited view, often view God as distant uncaring or untouchable. But the beauty of Jesus is that He shows us the Father God who is deeply personal, involved, caring, and endlessly loving. Jesus is Emmanuel, “God with us!” None are greater!

When you want to know what God thinks of us, look at Jesus. Consider how He responded to those who were broken or lost: the woman caught in adultery, Zacchaeus the tax collector, the lone woman at the well. Each time, Jesus tenderly reached out with His forgiveness and love. John’s gospel emphasizes this repeatedly: to know Jesus is to know God Himself. Father, Son and Holy Spirit -- that's the godhead!

Many religions bypass or misrepresent Jesus, totally missing the core of who He truly is. But the Bible is unambiguous: Jesus Christ is none other than sinless God in human form. He entered our world not just to show power but to express divine love and make a way for each one of us to have a righteous relationship with the Father. From the very beginning, God has been reaching out, extending Himself toward us. In Genesis, blood was shed and guilty Adam had a covering. In Revelation, He promises “the water of life freely to anyone who thirsts” (Revelation 21:6, nkjv). That's God’s passionate invitation to every soul. Come unto me all...

God doesn’t reach out to us out of loneliness or need—He is perfectly complete within Himself. But He loves us with a love that desires connection with Him, a relationship freely offered. Sometimes, the weight of life or our own failings can make it hard to approach God. But we need His candor, strength, His forgiveness, and His close presence now more than ever!

To know Him, to be near Him, that is more fulfilling! You and I don't need fame or fortune. We need Him--He's enough. Our God, rich in love and kind beyond measure, is Almighty—and He is here, among us, with open arms right now. In Him, we find the comfort, cleansing, hope, leadership, peace and strength we've wanted. May we embrace the Jesus of the Bible, hold on, and growing closer. Yes, to the One who became “God with skin on.”
www.godlife.com/gospel/read

Thursday, October 31, 2024

Do you serve the Lord among the rich or the poor, or among those in the middle? Serve Him wholeheartedly with no partiality.

Do you serve Him in a Resort, or in a hotel, or in a up-market (high-end) or low-end restaurant, or in some other people-business? I challenge you to show Christ's love in your service of excellence without any partiality. I serve among a lot of wealthy people and I serve others as well, but everyone I meet is a VVIP (very very important person) to me. Hello, if God leads you to serve him in a high-end resort just make sure that it was God leading you to do this. You don't want to be there unless God wants you there representing Him. 

But how do you or I maintain a good Christian witness among worldly people wherever we work. They value different things than you or me value. 

In every breath of Scripture, (very verse was all God-breathed) the Lord calls us Christians to something deeper in Him, to plant roots deeper.. to something nobler, a life unshackled from the sin and lesser pulls of this world system.

Favoritism—though common in our world—is one such chain that binds, a subtle leaning towards one over another. But in God's economy, partiality has no place. It’s a hard message, especially for those of us accustomed to measuring worth by wealth, appearance, or social standing. Yet, the Bible, in its wisdom, speaks to the very heart of this issue with pointed clarity.

Let us start with God Himself. “God does not show favoritism,” declares Romans 2:11, a truth that underscores His unchanging nature. He is utterly fair and infinitely just, seeing us all through the same lens of His love and justice. Ephesians 6:9 follows with the same refrain: “There is no favoritism with Him.” With God, there are no favored children, no handshakes for the well-off or nods to the socially superior. God’s character demands absolute fairness. In Colossians 3:25, we are reminded again that God repays each according to their deeds, holding all equally accountable. Thus, if our lives are to reflect His light, we too must be impartial.

James, the brother of our Lord, addresses the early church on this matter, calling out favoritism with direct urgency. “My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don’t show favoritism” (James 2:1). Favoritism here is not merely a social flaw; it’s a spiritual fracture. James explains, using the example of how people in his time might treat the wealthy with more deference than the poor—a trait as common today as then. How often do we look at the outward appearance instead of seeing the heart? The truth is, God calls us to a vision far greater than this world’s shallow assumptions, to a love that honors every person as worthy.

"Listen, my beloved brothers: Has not God chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom He promised those who love Him? But you have dishonored the poor. Is it not the rich who oppress you and drag you into court? Are they not the ones who blaspheme the noble name by which you have been called?" James 2:5-7

The Old Testament, too, reinforces this teaching. Leviticus 19:15 instructs, “Do not pervert justice; do not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the great, but judge your neighbor fairly.” God’s law of justice is blind to status. Similarly, Exodus 23:3 directs, “Do not show favoritism to a poor man in his lawsuit,” reminding us that God’s justice is pure and perfect. To be fair is to be like God, and anything less is beneath His call.

The call to treat others with equity is woven into the very fabric of the law of love. James 2:8-9 issues a clear, unambiguous statement: “If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself,’ you are doing right. But if you show favoritism, you sin.” Favoritism is not just a social misstep; it is, plainly, a sin. When we judge others by our personal preferences or cultural biases, we step outside the bounds of God’s law.

Christians, believing Church leaders, above all, are given a unique charge to remain impartial. The apostle Paul instructs Timothy, “I charge you, in the sight of God and Christ Jesus and the elect angels, to keep these instructions without partiality, and to do nothing out of favoritism” (1 Timothy 5:21). For leaders, who must guide and shepherd others, favoritism can distort truth and lead others astray. To lead is to serve every person with equal care and to act in the spirit of Christ, who loves unconditionally.

Even the apostle Peter, one of Jesus’ closest followers, struggled with bias. Initially hesitant to minister to Gentiles, Peter later declared, “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” (Acts 10:34-35). This turning point for Peter reminds us that showing God’s love without partiality is an intentional choice, one that requires a heart open to seeing all people as God’s children.

Favoritism persists as a challenge in every generation. In our hearts, the tendency to show partiality can be strong, but it’s a flawed and fallen impulse, and not from God. Instead, Christians are called to reflect God’s impartial, all-encompassing love. Let us remember, then, the message of John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son…” No person, no soul is outside the realm of God’s redeeming love. May we, in turn, treat each person with that same grace, seeing them as God sees them, worthy and cherished.

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”  Philippians 2:3–4

Paul goes on to instruct the Philippians to have the same mindset as Jesus when relating to others, and he details just how humble Jesus was. What does it mean to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit?

What should we learn from the story of the rich man and Lazarus?

What does the Bible say about the prosperity gospel? Lots of TV preachers pushing it, but It's off base.

What was Jesus' message to the church in Smyrna in Revelation?

What does the Bible say about wealth?

The call to serve God isn’t about where we serve, but how we serve. Whether among the wealthy or the poor, in a resort or a modest guesthouse, the call remains the same—to reflect Christ’s love with excellence and without partiality. This isn’t always easy. We live in a world that measures worth by wealth, power, and status, but the gospel flips this notion on its head. “God does not show favoritism” (Romans 2:11), and as we follow Him, neither should we.

Favoritism—whether subtle or blatant—has no place in our witness. As James 2:1 says, “My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don’t show favoritism.” The truth of the matter is this: every soul matters to God, regardless of wealth or social standing. And so, every person we encounter must be treated as a VVIP—a very, very important person. God is not a respecter of persons, and neither should we be, though we serve among the wealthy or the poor or anyone in between.

What does it mean to serve as a Christian witness? To be a witness is more than sharing beliefs; it’s living in such a way that people can see Jesus in our actions and attitudes. A fruitful witness carries Christ’s light into the world, not with pride or force, but with humility and love. Here are a few qualities that define such a life:

1) Passionate Love for Christ
Effective Christian witnesses are those who all-out love Jesus more than anything or anyone else. This isn’t a surface-level faith; it’s a relationship that fills them with love and overflows to everyone they meet. They don’t just “know about” Jesus; they know Him, and it shows.

2) Desire for Transformation in Others
People changed by Christ long for others to experience the same abundant life. They naturally prioritize their relationship with Jesus, and their lives are like open windows to God’s grace, showing how transformative His love can be.

3) Gentleness and Humility Showing Respect
True witnesses come with humble hearts. They don’t lecture or judge. They sit, they listen, and they build relationships. They are a friend to those around them and let the truth emerge from shared life, not forced agendas.

4) Prayer and Readiness
Fruitful witnesses are rooted in prayer, always asking God to prepare their hearts and make them ready to respond. When the time comes to speak or act, they do so because they’ve been waiting, hopeful that God is at work in those around them.

5) Servant-Hearted and Compassionate
The servant's heart goes out of its way to help others, not out of obligation but out of compassion. A good witness sees needs and responds, pouring out their resources in quiet service.

6) Beyond Courageous -- Bold as Lions
Following Jesus requires courage and He can give you what you need. He can make you bold as a lion. Sure, He sends us believers out into a world of people that may not understand or welcome the truth at all. Yet fruitful witnesses are bold because they know that their message is life-giving. They don’t fear rejection or hostility, knowing that even opposition can be met with gentleness.


In the end, God’s kingdom isn’t about outward appearances or social hierarchies. James 2:6 tells us, “But you have dishonored the poor man. Are not the rich the ones who oppress you, and the ones who drag you into court?” This reminder is powerful. God’s love is for all, equally and fully, and we are called to reflect this impartial love in how we serve others.

And what of justice? Yes, it’s good to rejoice when evil is restrained or removed from the world. Proverbs 11:10 says, “When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices; when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy.” But our rejoicing must be tempered with the reality of eternity. We are never to celebrate the eternal condemnation of any soul, for God “does not desire that anyone should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). As difficult as it is to hold both truths, we can be grateful for earthly justice and yet mourn for the lost.

So as we serve, let us do so with a heart that loves all people—rich or poor, friend or foe—with the gentleness and truth of Christ. Let us rejoice when justice is done, but never forget the eternal gravity of God’s calling on each of us. May our witness be a testament to the love of Christ that transcends all boundaries, as we serve without favoritism and with unwavering hope.

Need some verses about the rich and riches?

“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.

Hebrews 13:5 ESV 

Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

James 5:1-6 ESV

Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you. Your riches have rotted and your garments are moth-eaten. Your gold and silver have corroded, and their corrosion will be evidence against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have laid up treasure in the last days. Behold, the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, are crying out against you, and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts. You have lived on the earth in luxury and in self-indulgence. You have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter.

Luke 18:25 ESV 

For it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.”

Luke 12:33 ESV 

Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys.

1 Timothy 6:10 ESV 

For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.

1 Timothy 6:17 ESV 

As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy.

Matthew 6:19-21 ESV 

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Proverbs 19:17 ESV

Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.

Mark 12:41-44 ESV

And he sat down opposite the treasury and watched the people putting money into the offering box. Many rich people put in large sums. And a poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which make a penny. And he called his disciples to him and said to them, “Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box. For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.”

Luke 6:24 ESV 

“But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation.

1 Timothy 6:9 ESV  

But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction.

2 Corinthians 8:9 ESV  

For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.

Revelation 3:17 ESV 

For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing, not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked.

Proverbs 23:4-5 ESV  

Do not toil to acquire wealth; be discerning enough to desist. When your eyes light on it, it is gone, for suddenly it sprouts wings, flying like an eagle toward heaven.

Acts 20:35 ESV  

In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

1 Timothy 6:18 ESV  

They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share,

1 Timothy 6:17-19 ESV  

As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.

Luke 6:20 ESV 

And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said: “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.

James 1:11 ESV 

For the sun rises with its scorching heat and withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beauty perishes. So also will the rich man fade away in the midst of his pursuits.

Proverbs 14:31 ESV 

Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him.

Proverbs 13:11 ESV 

Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.

2 Corinthians 9:7 ESV 

Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

Proverbs 22:2 ESV 

The rich and the poor meet together; the Lord is the Maker of them all.

Luke 12:15 ESV

And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”

Proverbs 22:7 ESV 

The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.

Proverbs 22:9 ESV 

Whoever has a bountiful eye will be blessed, for he shares his bread with the poor.

Luke 12:33-34 ESV 

Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

1 Samuel 2:7 ESV 

The Lord makes poor and makes rich; he brings low and he exalts.

Luke 6:20-21 ESV 

And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said: “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. “Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you shall be satisfied. “Blessed are you who weep now, for you shall laugh.

Proverbs 30:8 ESV  

Remove far from me falsehood and lying; give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me,

Ecclesiastes 5:10 ESV 

He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves wealth with his income; this also is vanity.

Mark 8:35 ESV 

For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it.

James 2:5 ESV

Listen, my beloved brothers, has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to those who love him?

Proverbs 28:22 ESV 

A stingy man hastens after wealth and does not know that poverty will come upon him.

1 Timothy 6:9-10 ESV 

But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.

Ecclesiastes 5:19 ESV 

Everyone also to whom God has given wealth and possessions and power to enjoy them, and to accept his lot and rejoice in his toil—this is the gift of God.

Mark 4:19 ESV 

But the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches and the desires for other things enter in and choke the word, and it proves unfruitful.

Proverbs 15:27 ESV 

Whoever is greedy for unjust gain troubles his own household, but he who hates bribes will live.

Deuteronomy 8:18 ESV 

You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth, that he may confirm his covenant that he swore to your fathers, as it is this day.

Luke 16:19-31 ESV 

“There was a rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. And at his gate was laid a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, who desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man's table. Moreover, even the dogs came and licked his sores. The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham's side. The rich man also died and was buried, and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus at his side. ...

Proverbs 10:22 ESV 

The blessing of the Lord makes rich, and he adds no sorrow with it.

Matthew 19:21 ESV

Jesus said to him, “If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.”

Luke 1:37 ESV

For nothing will be impossible with God.”

Matthew 13:22 ESV 

As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful.

Proverbs 13:22 ESV

A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children, but the sinner's wealth is laid up for the righteous.

James 5:1 ESV

Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you.

Luke 3:11 ESV 

And he answered them, “Whoever has two tunics is to share with him who has none, and whoever has food is to do likewise.”

Revelation 1:1 ESV

The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John,

Luke 14:12-14 ESV 

He said also to the man who had invited him, “When you give a dinner or a banquet, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, lest they also invite you in return and you be repaid. But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you. For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the just.”

Leviticus 19:9-10 ESV

“When you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not reap your field right up to its edge, neither shall you gather the gleanings after your harvest. And you shall not strip your vineyard bare, neither shall you gather the fallen grapes of your vineyard. You shall leave them for the poor and for the sojourner: I am the Lord your God.

Genesis 13:2 ESV

Now Abram was very rich in livestock, in silver, and in gold.

Mark 8:36 ESV

For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?

James 2:1-26 ESV 

My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory. For if a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in, and if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, “You sit here in a good place,” while you say to the poor man, “You stand over there,” or, “Sit down at my feet,” have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? Listen, my beloved brothers, has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to those who love him? 

1 John 2:15-17 ESV 

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.

Leviticus 19:15 ESV

“You shall do no injustice in court. You shall not be partial to the poor or defer to the great, but in righteousness shall you judge your neighbor.

John 3:16 ESV 

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

Psalm 62:10 ESV 

Put no trust in extortion; set no vain hopes on robbery; if riches increase, set not your heart on them.

It’s an age-old tension we see before us: how to live out our true Christian love with impartiality, and see justice done while being a witness, and verbally witnessing in a world with both wealth people and poverty around us, with virtue and vice with those around us.

"If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not bridle his tongue, he deceives his heart and his religion is worthless. Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." James 1:26-27

God through James in the Word gives us that solid foundation, reminding us that “true religion” is a heart issue. It shows honor both the wealthy people and to the poor.. without any favoritism. God's word challenges us to check not just our actions but our heart-motives. Favoritism can creep in so subtly, affecting how we view or treat people, and it’s a struggle that every Christian faces, especially in environments that might prize wealth, power, or status.

James 2:6 points out the tragic irony in mistreating or dishonoring the poor while favoring those with wealth—who, in James’s time, often held the power to oppress. Today, we’re reminded to honor each person’s worth and dignity equally, seeing through God’s eyes rather than society’s.

First Peter 3:15 brings in another dimension: readiness to share the hope within us. To live this out is to ensure our witness is genuine, gentle, and motivated by love, especially in settings where differing values may abound. People around us might judge success by worldly standards, yet we’re called to stand out, showing our faith not just by words but by loving everyone without preference. This calls us to a challenging balance—being in the world yet not shaped by its values, a “salt and light” presence that speaks of Christ’s transformative love.

When it comes to justice and the fate of the wicked, Proverbs 11:10 reminds us that there’s a place for righteous rejoicing when justice is served, but as Ezekiel 18:23 clarifies, God’s heart is not for condemnation but for repentance. We can celebrate when evil actions are curbed or justice prevails, acknowledging that this is a taste of God’s earthly judgment. Yet, we’re to hold back from rejoicing over eternal punishment, as even God “takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked” (Ezekiel 33:11). The goal, always, is redemption, a reflection of God’s grace that spares us all.

As we aim to serve the Lord without partiality, it’s this godly grace we are to embody. We are to be ready to explain our hope in Christ, but also to demonstrate it by honoring each person we meet—both rich or poor. I want to view everyone I meet as a "VVIP" someone very very important in God’s sight, pointing them to a love (in the Lord) that knows no favorites, but earnestly desires the salvation of all people even though some will reject Christ.

This heart-centered impartiality of love in the Lord challenges us deeply--to the core of our being, calling us to pray and reflect God’s character in our service and witness, rejoicing in earthly justice while praying for every person to come to know Christ in a personal way and His living, life-changing hope.


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