“For the one that does not practice mercy will have his judgment without mercy. Mercy exults triumphantly over judgment.” (Jas. 2:13) How can we prove ourselves ‘practicers of mercy’ so as to avoid a “judgment without mercy”?

Consider first the context of James’ inspired words. He had earlier pointed out how wrong it was to show favoritism in the congregation, to be partial to the financially prosperous over the poor. (Jas. 2:1-9) He also stressed the importance of aiding and caring for those in need among the disciples. (Jas. 1:27; 2:14-17) Then, discussing the “heavier judgment” to which those serving as congregational teachers are liable, he stated forcefully the need to use the tongue rightly​—to bless and benefit, not to curse and damage.​—Jas. 3:1-18.

So, then, where do we find ourselves in this picture? Do we show special consideration to the financially prosperous over the financially poor, whether ministering outside or inside God’s congregation? If in a position of responsibility among God’s people, do we accord special favor, privileges and concessions on such basis? Or do we treat all with impartiality, being more interested in discerning good spiritual qualities, rather than material possessions or business acumen? Do we remember that, although some may contribute more in a monetary way than others, it is still the ‘mite of the widow of little means’ that is most laudable, because it is given, not out of one’s abundance, but out of want?​—Luke 21:1-4.

But what has this to do with mercy? How does partiality or favoritism affect mercy?

James wrote: “If, now, you practice carrying out the kingly law according to the scripture: ‘You must love your neighbor as yourself,’ you are doing quite well. But if you continue showing favoritism [“snobbery,” New English Bible], you are working a sin, for you are reproved by the law as transgressors.” (Jas. 2:8, 9) Partiality or favoritism works against mercy, stifles it. It tends to make one insensitive to others’ needs or, as Proverbs 21:13 says, to stop up one’s ear from hearing “the complaining cry of the lowly one.”

True, special consideration may be, and in some cases even should be, shown. But it should be the individual’s fine spiritual qualities that move us to show this special consideration. For example, 1 Timothy 5:17 says: “Let the older men who preside in a fine way be reckoned worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard in speaking and teaching.” Of Epaphroditus, who had come “near to death, exposing his soul to danger” in order to render service to Paul, the apostle wrote: “Keep holding men of that sort dear.” (Phil. 2:25, 29, 30) This is not partiality. It is the giving of due and merited recognition to faithful service.

So, then, if we were to show partiality in our dealings with others, if we were unfeeling as to concern for their needs, if our use of the tongue were harsh against others, critically judging them​—what could we expect in time of judgment? James says: “The one that does not practice mercy will have his judgment without mercy.” Yes, the one “stopping up his ear from the complaining cry of the lowly one, he himself also will call and not be answered.” (Prov. 21:13) God, in effect, lets them ‘taste their own medicine.’