Embracing Our Differences

No two people are created exactly the same. I love the way Dr. Suess talks about differences in the book “One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish” when he says, “Yes. Some are red. And some are blue. Some are old. And some are new. Some are sad. And some are glad. And some are very, very bad. Why are they sad and glad and bad? I do not know. Go ask your dad.”

Image courtesy of: steeljam

Scripture:
“They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus, but Paul chose Silas and left, commended by the believers to the grace of the Lord. – Acts 15:39-40

Observation/Application:
It’s true that we are all completely and utterly unique. God knew us and formed us and gave each of us different talents and gifts for us to use for our unique and special purpose. And when God calls us to obedience, we can use these gifts and talents in our own way. But these amazing gifts and talents that God has given us can sometimes create conflict because it can be difficult to understand people who are very different from us. Different life events, experiences, interests, and personalities can all cause conflict.

Even Paul and Barnabas, two very devoted and faithful disciples who walked alongside of Christ, came into conflict. It’s part of life. But while we uniqueness and differences might sometimes cause conflict in the flesh, let us never forget that we are all members of the same body of Christ. And as members of the same body of Christ, we should embrace these differences and work to understand and support each others unique purpose and calling. Sometimes it will be best to part ways for a season, or indefinitely. But let us always recognize that everyone is on a different journey. And when we cannot understand why some are sad and glad and bad, as Dr. Suess suggests, let us turn to our Dad! And let us walk in love as Christ always did. For God is love! – (1 John 4:8)

Prayer: 
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for your great Word, and for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ to walk on this earth and give us an example of how we are to live. Thank you for your supernatural wisdom, power, strength, peace, love, and joy that only comes through You. Help us to embrace the differences and our unique gifts and talents and callings, and to work together as the same member of the body of Christ. We fully surrender to you Lord. Fill us with your Word. Let your Holy spirit overflow in us. We receive these and all of your blessings now, and give you all the honor and glory and praise, in Jesus mighty name, Amen.

Photo By steeljam

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