Romans 12:4 (NKJV)

“For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function,”

We are different and each one is unique. God in His wisdom has made us in such a way that we are not the same. Imagine what life would be like if we were all alike, having the same abilities, looks and tastes? We are different and being different is not bad. Being different allows us to make diverse inputs into the same thing. The fact that someone sees something differently from me, does not make him bad and should not make me dislike him. Too many of us are too insecure and therefore we cannot handle different opinions and perspectives, particularly when they differ sharply from our own.

Difference is good and divine. Difference adds color to life. Difference brings out angles and contrasts that may have been overlooked otherwise. When someone opposes your thinking or ideas, listen with patience and humility. Maybe God is speaking through that person. Maybe there’s a salvation coming through the strange idea. Don’t feel threatened. This is God’s making. Don’t surround yourself with people who cannot speak a different opinion from yours. As NLT put it, “each part has a special function.” Accept the difference in others and from others. Accept their contributions as God’s mercy to you. And even if we reject their proposals, do so lovingly and positively. And never reject the person even if we reject their suggestions.

“Lord, I know I don’t do too well with oppositions and confrontations. Help my heart learn to appreciate others and help me grow to receive constructive input from others, even if they are different. In Jesus name. Amen.”