Counsels on Relationships
Counsel #21 — Embracing Every Voice
Picture: Counsel #21 — Embracing Every Voice CR 89.1
Have you ever been in a conversation where someone made you feel truly heard and valued? That’s the kind of connection Christian communication encourages, especially when promoting diversity. God created and loves all people from different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences, and when we take the time to listen and learn from others, we embrace the beauty of His creation. CR 89.2
While on earth, Jesus modeled this perfectly by interacting with people from all walks of life and treating each one with dignity and respect. In our schools, workplaces, and churches, promoting diversity through communication means being curious and open-minded, discovering how everyone can use his or her unique skillset and talents to contribute to the community. Promoting diversity through communication is about valuing perspectives different from our own. That’s how real unity grows—not by ignoring differences, but by celebrating and including them. When we intentionally listen to every person’s unique, God-given voice, we mirror His heart for unified Christian communication.14 CR 89.3
“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:28 NIV CR 89.4
“How great the diversity manifested in the natural world! Every object has its peculiar sphere of action; yet all are found to be linked together in the great whole.” Ellen White in Our High Calling, p. 169 CR 89.5
Reflect: Do your words and actions reflect God’s love for all people, regardless of their differences? CR 89.6