Yaa sat in the back seat of the church, unsure if she belonged. It was her first time attending a service in years, and while everyone around her seemed warm and welcoming, she couldn’t shake the feeling that she didn’t fit in.
Her past mistakes loomed large in her mind, and she couldn’t help but wonder: Would God accept someone like me?
During the sermon, the lady pastor, LP Lisa read Acts 10:34-35:
“Then Peter began to speak: ‘I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears Him and does what is right.’”
Yaa’s heart skipped a beat. Could it really be true? Could God accept her, no matter her background, her past or where she came from?
LP Lisa explained the context of the verse. Peter, a Jewish disciple of Jesus had grown up believing that God’s blessings were primarily for the Jewish people. But in Acts 10, God gave Peter a vision that changed his perspective.
In the vision, Peter saw a sheet filled with animals that Jewish law considered unclean. God told Peter to eat, but Peter refused, saying he had never eaten anything unclean. God responded: “Do not call anything impure that God has made clean” (Acts 10:15).
Shortly after, Peter was invited to the house of Cornelius, a Roman centurion. Cornelius was a Gentile, someone Peter would have previously avoided. But Peter obeyed God and went to Cornelius’s house, where he saw firsthand that the Holy Spirit was at work among the Gentiles.
It was in that moment that Peter declared: “God does not show favouritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears Him and does what is right” (Acts 10:34-35).
Yaa reflected on the story. Like Cornelius, she wasn’t sure if she “measured up” to the standards of faith. But Peter’s words reminded her of a powerful truth: God’s love and acceptance are not limited by nationality, background, or past mistakes.
God doesn’t show favouritism. He welcomes anyone who seeks Him with a sincere heart.
That day, Yaa prayed: “God, I don’t feel worthy of Your love, but I want to know You. Thank You for accepting me just as I am. Help me to live in a way that honours You.”
Over time, Yaa began to grow in her faith. She realized that God’s acceptance wasn’t something she had to earn, it was a gift freely given through Jesus.
Here’s how Yaa began living in the light of God’s acceptance:
- Drawing Near to God
Yaa made time to read the Bible and pray each day. She found comfort in verses like Romans 8:1: “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” - Building Community
Yaa joined a the weekly bacenta group at church, where she found encouragement and support. She realized that God’s family was made up of people from all walks of life, united by their faith in Jesus. - Sharing God’s Love
Inspired by God’s unconditional love, Yaa looked for ways to share that love with others. She volunteered at a local shelter, where she met people with stories similar to hers. She felt God’s presence as she extended His love and acceptance to those around her.
Acts 10:35 reminds us that God’s love is for everyone. He doesn’t judge us by our nationality, status or past. Instead, He looks at our hearts.
God accepts all who turn to Him with reverence and a desire to live in His ways. His arms are open to anyone—regardless of background—who seeks Him sincerely.
May you find peace in knowing that God does not show favouritism. His love and acceptance are freely given to all who seek Him. No matter your past or where you come from, you are welcomed into His family.
“God does not show favouritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears Him and does what is right.” Acts 10:34-35
Heavenly Father, thank You for loving and accepting me just as I am. Help me to trust in Your grace and to live in a way that honours You. Thank You for reminding me that Your love knows no boundaries and that I am welcomed into Your family. In Jesus Name, Amen.
May you walk confidently in the truth of His love, knowing that you are accepted and cherished by Him!
