ACCEPTANCE

I Am Accepted

“Except one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God."
Romans 15:7

     Rejection is one of the most painful experiences known to humanity. All around us we see children seeking acceptance and the approval of people in their lives. For example, in just about every home, we hear children say things like this:  "Do you like my drawing Mommy?" "Did I play well daddy?" Yes, we were taught that if we performed well or had a certain amount of social status, we would finally be somebody. But the fact of the matter is that, no matter how hard we try, someone is going to find a way to put us down. Somewhere along the line we are going to face rejection or criticism of self-condemnation.

     Jesus himself came to this Earth, and he is clearly the only human being in history, of whom it can be said, that he was perfect; yet, there were those in his culture who had their own self interest at heart. They felt threatened by him. Day in and day out they set about to make his life miserable. So trying to please people- just to be loved- is an exercise in futility.

     I have regularly met people- from all over the world- who are adults; yet they are still seeking the approval of their parents or significant others in their lives. The voices in their heads cause them to sacrifice their own spiritual integrity just to avoid rejection of other human beings. Or they do this because they want to please someone who reminds them of a major figure in their life.

  Regrettably, this is epidemic in the cultures of our world. So people purchase certain labels of clothing. They make sure that they have the "kissable lip stick." They drive the "right" car. They diet until they are emaciated. They may even purge themselves by vomiting after they eat. In some cases, this becomes so severe -for some people- that they cut themselves to feel the pain. This is sad… Sad indeed.

     Understanding and receiving God's unconditional love is foundational for  our future growth. We don't have to do things so that God will someday accept us. We are accepted by God completely as we are! Our actions and words would best be in response to God's love, not an attempt to earn his favor. This is why the apostle Paul said," except one another as Christ accepted you." Indeed, Christ has accepted us.  He accepted us before we gave up our old ways.  "Even while we were yet sinners," he died for us.

     Let me encourage you to be like a newborn babe in Christ. Desire "the sincere milk of God's Word."  When you feel threatened by people, or the need to compete with them unnecessarily, find a promise from God's Word (The Holy Bible) about how much he loves you. Reflect on something like the 23rd Psalm that clearly shares 17 promises of God's love for you. Think about Romans 8:38-39 throughout the day.  Reflect on it. Meditate on it.  Make it a part of your heart.   Receive God's love. Focus on being loved.  Let his love permeate your very being.  Then you can be at peace, and be blessed today… Especially today.

 

 SoJourner