Accept One Another

9-18-2012 by Boyd Bailey "Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God." Romans 15:7 Acceptance sets the tone in a trusting relationship. It ascribes value by making a friend feel special, especially if someone struggles with wounds from past rejection and hurt. Acceptance is an antidote for guilt and regret. It looks to bring meaning in the moment, not dwelling on former failures. It creates a non-judgmental, safe environment. Like a sympathetic nurse, it listens with empathy. Acceptance feels no discrimination or bias. Who is hungry for your approval and acceptance? Is it a child, a parent, a friend, a co-worker or fellow Christ follower who needs to feel your warm words of delight in them? To not be an included team member is emotional torture. Passive rejection can be worse that blatant rejection. Indeed, an accepting attitude says, "I believe in you", "I need you", "I am for you". You give others the benefit of the doubt. A person who feels your approval has nothing to prove. "To the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6 NKJV Acceptance from Almighty God is found in Christ. He accepts the rejected. He invites those who wander from the faith to come home. Christ calls His children back from embarrassing situations and embraces them with open arms. His acceptance is unconditionally based on His love and grace. The Lord is looking for those in need of approval. He can't wait to bless and believe in His own. Jesus accepts back those who have turned their backs on Him. Therefore, accept others as Jesus has accepted you. Even sinners, you may ask? Yes, you can accept the individual without compromising your integrity. You grow in Christ's character when others, who are unlike you, know you like them. You love those who love the world, without your loving the world. When you serve someone with competing standards, they tend to ask "why me". Lovingly say, "why not you"--in order to bring praise to God! "The one who eats everything must not treat with contempt the one who does not, and the one who does not eat everything must not judge the one who does, for God has accepted them." Romans 14:3 Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for accepting me in Christ, so I can accept others in the same way. Related Readings: Psalm 101:3; John 6:27; Acts 15:8; 1 Thessalonians 2:13