What does the Bible say about acceptance with God?

Throughout Scripture, the issue of acceptance with God is central to our relationship with Him. In Genesis 4, the contrasting offerings of Cain and Abel illustrate this principle. Abel's offering was accepted by God because it was made in faith, while Cain's was rejected because it stemmed from unbelief and a misunderstanding of God's requirements. Acceptance with God, as seen in Ephesians 1:6, ultimately comes through being 'accepted in the beloved,' that is, through faith in Jesus Christ who is the only way we can be reconciled to God. This highlights that it is not merely about our actions or efforts to seek God, but rather about God's sovereign choice to accept us based on our faith in Christ's atoning sacrifice.