“My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism.”
– James 2:1
In today’s competitive business environment, it’s easy to fall into the trap of showing favoritism. Whether it’s gravitating toward employees who share our interests, promoting those who mirror our communication style, or giving choice assignments to people we simply “click” with, workplace partiality can create toxic environments that diminish both morale and productivity. The Bible provides clear guidance on this issue, offering timeless wisdom for modern business leaders.
James 2:1-4 directly addresses this challenge: “My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism. Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, ‘Here’s a good seat for you,’ but say to the poor man, ‘You stand there’ or ‘Sit on the floor by my feet,’ have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?”
While James speaks about treatment in the church, the principle applies equally to our workplace interactions. God’s standard is clear – we are to treat all people with equal dignity and respect, regardless of their external characteristics or circumstances.
In Deuteronomy 10:17, we find a powerful description of God’s character: “For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality and accepts no bribes.” As business leaders seeking to reflect God’s character, this verse should shape our leadership approach. If the Creator of the universe shows no partiality, how can we justify showing favoritism in our organizations?
The apostle Peter’s revelation in Acts 10:34-35 reinforces this truth: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right.” This statement came as Peter recognized that God’s message was for all people, not just a select few. Similarly, our workplace opportunities and recognition should be based on merit, character, and performance – not personal preferences or surface-level connections.
Practical steps for eliminating workplace partiality include:
1. Implement objective performance metrics
2. Create standardized promotion criteria
3. Establish transparent communication channels
4. Rotate project assignments fairly
5. Develop meeting practices where all voices can be heard
Proverbs 28:21 warns us that “To show partiality is not good—yet a person will do wrong for a piece of bread.” This sobering reminder acknowledges how easily we can compromise our principles for small gains or conveniences. As Christian business leaders, we must remain vigilant against this tendency.
Consider the example of Moses, who was instructed in Leviticus 19:15: “Do not pervert justice; do not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the great, but judge your neighbor fairly.” This balanced approach reminds us that showing favoritism to any group – whether privileged or underprivileged – distorts justice and undermines organizational integrity.
The consequences of workplace partiality extend beyond immediate morale issues. It can lead to:
– Decreased employee engagement
– Higher turnover rates
– Reduced innovation as diverse perspectives are marginalized
– Legal liability and reputation damage
– Spiritual compromise in our leadership witness
Think and Pray: As we strive to build healthy organizational cultures, let’s remember Paul’s words to 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). This solemn charge reminds us that our leadership practices reflect not just on ourselves, but on our witness as Christian business leaders. Heavenly Father, help me to reflect Your impartiality with my actions, in Jesus’ name, amen.
Adrian Savedra serves as Area Director for CBMC in Oklahoma. Having spent his early career as a head college baseball coach, his passion is helping others grow spiritually and apply the precepts of the bible to every area of their lives. He is active in his church and a shepherd to the many men involved with CBMC.
