God doesn't play favorites
KITWE, Zambia—Living in the Western world and want a reality check? Try visiting Christians living and working in some of the most economically challenged areas of the world.
On our continuing trip through Africa this month, my wife Bev and I have recently been travelling in the remotest parts of Zambia. Here we have been visiting those whom God has called. It is humbling and inspiring at the same time. These people have positively responded to the Word of God and have been brought to authentic repentance and a new life of change. Through the mighty power of God (Ephesians 1:19) they have transformed from living a life of sin to a life of righteousness. They are spiritually rich.
But on the physical side of the equation, these people are desperately poor. According to the United Nations, a full 64 percent of Zambia's population (13.8 million people) live below the poverty line. Life expectancy here is only into the middle 50s. People living in Zambia obviously have many needs.
Here's some good news: Tapping the resources available through LifeNets International, on this trip we have both preached the gospel to these people and we have provided cattle, seed, fertilizer and access to water so they can improve their livelihoods. Others have been awarded scholarships funded by LifeNets to better themselves. All have been gratefully received.
What humbles us is how God is not playing favorites with any race or economic sector. He views man's potential on an even playing field. Whether one lives in Lusaka, Los Angeles or London, "There is no respect of persons with God" (Romans 2:11, Authorized Version). The New International Version provides this vibrant translation: "God does not show favoritism."
Further, in Acts 10:34 the apostle Peter notes how God's power is available to all, whether Jew or gentile, American or African:
"Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons" (Authorized Version). The NIV makes this even clearer: "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, emphasis added).
On this trip Bev and I have again had the humbling privilege to experience firsthand the truth of what Paul and Peter recorded thousands of years ago. When it comes to those He has called, God cares not for national boundaries or one's place in society.
There is real hope for each and every one of us! God truly is "bringing many sons to glory" (Hebrews 2:10) around the globe, regardless of where we come from.
If you are not already doing so, I invite you to follow my online travel blog as Bev and I continue to visit our congregations and Good News readers in remote areas of Africa. We are in the third week of our visit to Zambia and Malawi, and the powerful story of how God is working in the lives of the poorest is a great encouragement to us all. Click here for the online story to date.
P.S. God promises "incomparably great power for us who believe" (Ephesians 1:19, NIV). If you would like to read more about what the Bible says about bringing the power of God into your life—wherever you may be—request or read online our free Bible study aid, Transforming Your Life: the Process of Conversion.
