Romans 15:7
“Wherefore accept one another, just as Christ also accepted us to the glory of God.”
Today's prayer focus
- For our acceptance of one another to result in continued unity in our church body.
- That Christ’s acceptance of us in the gospel would shape our heart for others.
- For every type of person to feel included at Lake Baldwin Church.
- For guests to feel that acceptance on their first visit... and every other visit!
"Accept One Another"
Kim Anderson
When we consider the many different people, personalities and situations we encounter on a daily basis, what does it really mean when Paul commands us to "accept one another"? Does acceptance necessarily mean agreeing with one another?
What does it look like for business partners to accept one another when vision for their company differs? A husband and wife are not of the same mind regarding school choices, and two friends are in stark disagreement, yet each are called to accept one another. What does accepting one another practically look like for us at LBC in the midst of all our preferences?
A hint is given in verse 5 when Paul says, “May the God who gives us perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus.” Accepting one another doesn’t insist upon same-mind agreement on a particular issue. It does, however, imply that amidst our differences, we are to interact with others according to the same mind of Christ Jesus and his ways of love. In all its beauty, accepting one another is the practice of engaging others in ways that honor their dignity as image bearers of God, while remembering God’s acceptance of us. As we at LBC seek Jesus’ ways of thinking and loving. Verse 6 says, “with one accord you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Would you pray that as a church, we would continue to grow in the practice of accepting one another, resulting in our one voice glorifying our great God?
Anchored by God’s Word, Kim Anderson is passionate about awarding worth and cultivating growth in women by helping them understand their identity in Christ. Married for 25 years to her husband Danny, they have four children. A writer and speaker at heart, Kim is grateful for the gift of words!