Are you familiar with the process of dehumanization? This is used by hostile groups to deprive their enemies of a human identity. It can begin by assigning an unflattering nickname to the target group. This may seem fairly innocent but it is the first step on the path to genocide. Millions have died in the process that begins with dehumanization. What is the opposite of this? Can you consider those who are entirely different from you, with whom you think you have nothing in common, and see that they too are created in my image and likeness and worthy of respect on that basis alone?

Do you resent being manipulated? Do you understand that other people only have as much power over you as you give them? The degree to which you care about their opinion of you is the same degree that they will be able to influence you. The Bible warns against this as the fear of men, rather than the fear of God. I said that no man can serve two masters. Do you think of this as a simple binary choice between money and me? Anyone to whom you surrender control is your master.

What sort of incentive systems are you used to? You expect to be punished or deprived for doing the wrong things and rewarded or commended for doing the right things. Systems in which you are rewarded for doing the wrong thing are called perverse incentives. How do you see me? I am regarded as an extreme version of a conventional reward system by believer and unbeliever alike. Yet my word says it is my goodness that leads you to repentance. Paul reminds you that you are not to sin that grace may abound, but I am prepared to lavish blessings upon you until you return to me.

Do you understand that you should not judge people for things over which they have no control? You can’t blame people for their race, gender, age, or nation of origin. In many countries these are among categories legally protected against prejudice. Presumably then you can legally discriminate against people for things in their life they have control over, but should you? Do you have perfect control over the circumstances in your own life? Can you completely describe a person by the sum of their choices? The Biblical standard is higher than the legal standard. Don’t judge at all.