The last thing any of us want to hear when things are tragic, or annoying, or painful in any way is that we need to accept what is happening. Our inclination is to deny it, get rid of it, or cast it aside.
We fear acceptance makes it real and that acceptance validates what is going on. But reality is real whether or not we accept it. We tend to reject reality in an attempt to change what we cannot change.
A true perspective will not reject the reality of what is happening. And the truth is that some circumstances hurt. Some are tragic and troublesome and infuriating.
Acceptance does not mean we have to pretend bad is good or vice versa. Acceptance is about understanding even what hurts is an opportunity. Any circumstance can become a tool in our hands to serve the kingdom of God. Even what we don’t like or understand is an opportunity to develop character, serve others, and participate in God’s plan for us.
Acceptance is the final stage of grief. Acceptance is not approval. It is simply recognition. It means we acknowledge the hard realities of circumstance. It is a necessary step toward choosing to use them as launching pads for opportunity.
Even the worst of troubles is an invitation to live the life God has called us to.
“He replied, ‘You are talking like a foolish woman. Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?’ In all this, Job did not sin in what he said.”
– Job 2:10