For the Faithful
Acceptance
Seeing the differences of others as opportunities to learn rather than reasons to judge
Our current faith‑based resources are written from a Christian perspective, but we know that many other faith traditions also nurture strong character, and we want to honor and uplift that diversity.
We are actively seeking contributors from additional faith traditions who would like to help us expand this section. If you are interested, we would be grateful to partner with you.
Acceptance helps create a church community where every person feels welcomed as a child of God.
When we honor differences with grace rather than judgment, unity grows and love becomes visible. Acceptance reflects Christ’s invitation to embrace one another with compassion and humility.
Essay
Our Value in the Church
by Jill Tomey
I was at a seminar once where the speaker held up a designer handbag and an empty whipped cream container. She asked which one had the greater value. We all chose the handbag. We were wrong. To her, the handbag held no value because it was too big for her. The whipped cream container was one she froze leftovers in. It was the perfect size for her and her husband.
Our worth is not assigned by the value the world places on us but by our heavenly Father. He redeemed everyone of us because we are his children. For this reason, we need to be tolerant and accepting of those around us. We are all created in his divine image. Paul tells us about the diversity of the human body and how this mirrors the church. We each bring our different gifts to the altar. Together, we function as the Body of Christ.
This month, practice Acceptance and value the gifts of others.
Affirmations for the Faithful
I build bridges by seeking the common ground God calls us to share.
I welcome new ideas and viewpoints with a spirit of curiosity and grace.
I seek unity and peace, trusting that God works through our differences.
I respect the beliefs of others and look for the good in every person, remembering they are made in God’s image.
I believe that everyone is doing the best they can with what they have, and I choose compassion just as Christ shows compassion to me.
Acceptance Resource Library
The Links below will take you to Resources, like activities, reflections, and visuals you can use personally or in your faith organization to encourage the Character Quality of Acceptance.
Acceptance Verses
Want to deepen your understanding of Acceptance through Scripture? Explore our collection of Acceptance Bible Verses for inspiration and reflection.
