The Wrong Side Of The Tracks

The Wrong Side of the Tracks

God does not show favoritism.

Romans 2:11

Is it possible to live on the wrong side of the tracks in an Amish community? You may be surprised that the answer is yes. While the goal of every parent is to model and teach what a good Amish man or woman is like, each Amish child grows up with both an individual and a family identity. The truth is, some Amish families are just more popular than others.

Although youth are not officially Amish until they join the church as adults, their Amish identity begins to form in infancy. Identity emerges from intentional training and instruction combined with the cultural influences that surround a person. Some aspects of Amish identity are achieved, such as their approach to work, and some emerge from relationships and associations.

A teenager’s family of origin is an important source in defining self-identity. Children and youth from highly esteemed families are likely to form positive self-identities since they benefit directly from the accomplishments and status of their grandparents and parents. Family success is usually measured by hard work, thrift, good management, and the outcome of their children. Young people whose parents fail to meet the community ideals may struggle more with identity issues, both personally and socially because of these family liabilities.

It seems no matter who we are or where we live, the popularity game is present. What a blessing that God shows no favorites! Deuteronomy 10:17 says, “The LORD your God is the God of gods and Lord of lords. He is the great God, the mighty and awesome God, who shows no partiality and cannot be bribed.”

Do you find yourself showing favoritism to people in your life? Do you have a better relationship with one child than with another? Do you favor certain friends because of their accomplishments or because you deem them more “worthy”? Thank God that He doesn’t compare you with others. Then ask Him to transform your heart. Work on doing your part to show all those you interact with that they are loved by God.

Dear heavenly Father, I am thankful that You do not have favorites. Help me to see those people around me as You see them. Help me to focus on hearts first—and not show favoritism.