Every academic institution and workplace has a peer review system in place. For obvious reasons the peer reviewers are kept anonymous. However, there is occasionally pushback from the party that was reviewed, particularly if the review was negative or less than flattering. Peer reviews are also found with publications. Here, another layer of anonymity must be added. Not only do the identities of the reviewers need to be masked, the names of the submitting authors and affiliated organizations should also be masked. Several studies have convincingly demonstrated that when reviewers know the names or institutions of the authors, there is a definite bias toward established authors or prestigious institutions.
What about our spiritual lives? In contrast to life situations, we will always know that God is evaluating our actions. God is omniscient, omnipresent, and omnipotent. If we know this, why do we sometimes think God is unfair, even biased against us? If we still observe inequality and inequity in this world, we conclude that He cannot give us a fair review because He is not truly in control.
But as for me, I almost lost my footing. My feet were slipping, and I was almost gone. For I envied the proud when I saw them prosper despite their wickedness.
Psalms 73:2-3 (NLT)
Like the Psalmist, we may look at the world around us and think that the wicked are rewarded and the good are punished. How can God be a just and fair Judge when He allows this to happen? What is the answer?
Whom have I in heaven but you? I desire you more than anything on earth. My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever.
Psalms 73:25-26 (NLT)
In the end, the Psalmist understood that it was not about the possessions we gain in this life nor is it about the outward appearance of wealth and success. Our existence is not limited to our life on this earth. Our souls are eternal and if we have accepted Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we will forever live with God. The riches of this life cannot begin to compare with the riches of Heaven. Why should we attempt to gain the world only to lose our soul?
Whatever the appearance of bias that God may have, the inescapable Truth is this.
For there is no partiality with God.
Romans 2:11 (NASB)
Love and trust in the Lord; seek His will in your life.
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