Day 4: Be Equal

Did you know that only 500 words make up over 90% of our everyday language? It’s true. While our vocabulary is vast, we generally rely on a minority of words to communicate the majority of our speech. 

One word that is not one of the most commonly used words in our culture is equality. Not only is it not one of the 500 most commonly used words, it’s not even in the top 1,000. 

While it’s impossible to know how regularly words like ‘equal’ or ‘equality’ were used in ancient Corinth, it’s clearly one of the themes Paul presents in his writings. But Paul doesn’t just say, “Live in equality.” He goes one step further. Whether writing to the people of Corinth, Ephesus, Philippi, or other cities, Paul emphasized that Christians already are equal. It doesn’t matter if you’re male or female, rich or poor, black or white, married or unmarried. What matters is Jesus Christ, His death and resurrection, and following Him. Jesus didn’t discriminate based on sex, status, or wealth, and one of the marks of Christianity is to be followers of Jesus, becoming more and more like Him each and every day. As you read today, consider this: How would you define equality? 

READING: 1 CORINTHIANS 11:17-33, MARK 2:13-17

How would you define equality?

On a scale of 1-10, how well do you think Christians today are setting a godly example regarding equality?  

How may God be inviting you to better share with others what His Word says regarding equality? 

F260 READING: (A Scripture Reading Plan for Busy Believers)

Read: Nehemiah 11

Reflect: What did you H.E.A.R. from God today?

PRAYER:

Heavenly Father, I confess that the topic of equality sometimes leads to tense conversations, as there are many different thoughts and opinions about what it means to live in equality. Today I pray that I would not fear conversations about equality, but I would instead embrace them. I pray that You would help me better listen to those who have a different perspective. That You would give me wisdom to learn from these other perspectives. And that You would bring to light any ungodly thoughts I may have about inequality of wealth, gender, or race. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen. 

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