Christ accepted you, so you should accept each other, which will bring glory to God.
Romans 15:7
The church in Rome was divided. People were accepting certain religious customs and truths about God but rejecting others. They were doing the same to the people who followed them. Their condescending attitudes were out of line with God's purpose and perspective. That truth is as valid today as it was almost two thousand years ago.
Jesus accepted everyone without reservation. He knew everyone inside and out - he knew the good, the bad, and everything in between. He accepted you long before you noticed him, even if you rejected him, and solely because he loves you unconditionally.
As you grow more intimate with the One who has fully accepted you, it becomes easier to accept those around you even those whose actions, attitudes, and beliefs do not line up with your own. You may not condone what they do or agree with what they believe, but you can still receive them with open arms, which is what the Greek word for accept really means. Being honest, authentic, and accepting in your love, even of people who misunderstand or reject you, helps them see what God's love is like. It gives them a real-life picture of how Jesus related to others - and ultimately related to them. When you accept others, it pleases God, as well as reveals him.
Pray for anyone you have difficulty accepting. Ask God to reveal any fear, anger or jealousy on your part. Then ask God to help you understand how he feels about the one you're praying for.
Source: The 100 Most Important Bible Verses
Keep God close to your heart during times of questioning the worth of a fellow brother or sister - prayer is key. We all have worth in the eyes of God. It is our earthly flesh that makes us blind. Let us be that mirror image of God and love without barriers. Let not the past, history, dictate our present actions. But look towards the heavens for direction on how to accept with open arms and an open mind. ~ MME Team
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