Our nation has become more racially and ethnically diverse in the past decade — particularly within younger population groups. And, as the last census revealed, many predict the U.S. will become a “minority-majority” nation in the next few decades.

While I believe diversity propels our churches and societies forward, it seems the cultural climate in our nation begs to differ. Instead of viewing our differences as ways to spark innovation and inspire creativity, some approach diversity with tension and hostility.

Leading in higher education, I’ve recognized the beauty and necessity of diversity. Our college prioritizes creating programs and courses that enable students to learn about and have conversations with people of different cultures, races and backgrounds.

Although many young adults (such as Gen Z) recognize the value of diversity, there are still those who don’t know how to approach and appropriately interact with someone from a different background.

Here are four questions to help young adults navigate diversity in their communities, workplaces, and churches:

1. How do you perceive people who are different? Are you intrigued by these differences, or do you see them as a barrier? Whether or not it is realized, you may approach certain situations or people with a bias. Even if you don’t express your viewpoints externally, internal thoughts may affect your interaction with others.

There could be certain ways your actions hurt those around you. It’s important to recognize you may treat others based on the culture or community values and standards in which you grew up. And others do the same. Instead, you should treat them how Christ would — with love and respect. John 13:34 says, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”

When identifying any barriers you create, it will help you assess how your perception may be skewed. This can be done by taking implicit bias tests (such as Project Implicit) or talking to those you trust to give honest feedback on your actions. This will teach you to reflect before you act.

2. Are you willing to listen? The first step to understand someone is to listen to them. Let’s be honest, most people will start a conversation to share their own perspective and tune out what others have to say. But, if you genuinely care about others, you will listen with the intention of learning not to respond. Proverbs 18:15 reminds us, “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.”

Young adults must recognize that learning about others is one way to show you truly care about them.

Conversations with people who are different from you will help create awareness. You may gain insights from broad perspectives and learn about what others value in life. Thus, you will become more conscious of your actions and how you interact with people from contrasting backgrounds. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about why they may view certain situations in a different light.

At Southeastern University, we have developed several courses on human diversity and interracial communications. Students have said that the open conversations in the classroom have helped them become attuned to prejudices existing in our nation and within themselves. They also have become more aware of their actions around people of different races and have gained compassion for one another.

3. Do you make an effort to learn about others? If you’ve lived in the same city your whole life and most people act or look like you, then it’s time to get outside of your comfort zone. It’s important that you engage with people from various cultures and backgrounds in order to learn about them.

When you do, you learn how to employ empathy and ask questions in a respectful manner to discover the passions and values of others. Part of this process is placing yourself in someone else’s shoes. You may not fully understand what they are going through, but you can learn to connect with the emotions they feel.

Young adults must recognize that learning about others is one way to show you truly care about them. Ultimately, as Christians, we should view every individual as valuable because we are all created in the image of God (Genesis 1:26-27).

4. Are you willing to work toward a common goal? Whether it’s in a church setting, college classroom, workplace, or neighborhood, you may be wondering how to find common ground when there are multiple perspectives. Oftentimes, in doing so, you must recognize your approach and opinions don’t trump those of someone else.

At SEU we operate out of a relational framework. To produce an effective relational framework, we take the time for listening to others to clarify our vision. In many of those situations, such as in the classroom or at work, you may be striving toward a common goal. But to reach it you must willingly listen to others and collaborate on solutions.

By listening, you gain perspective. It can help you discover new ways of viewing the situation or coming up with alternative options. Also, it brings new ideas to the table. This type of collaboration is essential to help you grow as an individual. As Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 12:17-20, the beauty of the church body is through its diversity and unity in Christ.