Day 117, Year 1

Accepting Others Starts with Self-acceptance

“Receive one who is weak in the faith, but not to disputes over doubtful things.” (Romans 14:1 NKJV)

The Greek word proslambano for “receive” at the beginning of the above verse means “take in addition, to take to one’s self, or to take as one’s companion.” Today’s verse reminds believers to receive those who are weak in faith and to have an open attitude in dealing with controversies of secondary importance. Indeed, if conclusions are drawn hastily over the controversies among believers, it would probably lead to schism or division in any Christian community. Strong faith and weak faith are actually two different perspectives on many issues. One example relevant to today’s verse is that believers with strong faith see no problem eating food sacrificed to idols, but those with weak faith consider eating them wrong. Paul emphasized that believers with strong faith should bear with the weak. But I believe that sometimes the ones with weak faith should follow the ones with strong faith instead.

People tend to accept their strengths readily but struggle to accept their weaknesses. If Christians are weak in faith, we should first acknowledge this reality and subsequently examine the reasons behind our weakness so that we might resolve it. Accepting a problem always precedes resolving it. Conversely, some people constantly avoid their problems and even try to control other people, forbidding anyone to talk about their problems. How could such people improve their lives in this way? By no means. Furthermore, if believers in a church are not allowed to mention others’ weaknesses but are instead encouraged to escape their own problems, could the church as a whole still advance in faith? When a community of believers tolerates problems or even sins, how could they receive God’s work?

Some might find it difficult to get along with others because they are unable to accept themselves or others. For instance, some might urge others to solve various problems while avoiding facing the same issues they have. It is a selfish and irresponsible manner, as it is, in fact, easier to push others to solve their problems than to solve their own issues. If these people do not reflect and repent, they will drag the whole faith community down, turning it into a place of mutual accusation or escapism. In contrast, we should seek divine wisdom to acknowledge and confront our own problems, as well as accept the people around us with God’s wisdom and guidance and help them solve their problems. It often requires us to have patience and pray for God’s guidance so as to  solve different issues successfully.

Reflection questions:

1) Do you find it easy to acknowledge your weaknesses or problems and rely on the Lord’s help to resolve them?

2) How should the communities of believers address various weaknesses and problems together to advance in faith? If you met some believers with readiness, would you share your suggestions with them?