Counsels on Relationships

Counsel #28 — Open Arms Always

Picture: Counsel #28 — Open Arms Always CR 30.1

Welcoming others is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to show kindness. In school, at work, or in social settings, it’s easy to stick with your usual group of friends out of comfort, but reaching out to someone new can make a big difference. CR 30.2

A simple "Hey, want to sit with us?" or "How’s your day going?" can turn someone’s day around and make them feel included! Real friendship isn’t about exclusivity; it’s about making space for others. Jesus set the ultimate example of this. He welcomed people from all backgrounds - tax collectors, fishermen, and those society often rejected. When considering whether you’re promoting a healthy friendship, always look for fruits of the Spirit in your actions and in the actions of others. If there is no peace, joy, love, patience, kindness, goodness, self-control, faithfulness, or gentleness in how you treat people, or in how others treat you, that’s a sure indicator the Holy Spirit is absent. Ultimately, choosing to welcome others strengthens your character and creates more opportunities for genuine, lasting friendships to be built.²¹ CR 30.3

“Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.” Romans 15:7 NIV CR 30.4

“As you open your door to Christ's needy and suffering ones, you are welcoming unseen angels.” Ellen White in The Desire of Ages, p. 639 CR 30.5

Reflect: How can you make others feel welcomed and included in your daily interactions? CR 30.6