Political Differences? We’re Not All the Same Peas in a Pod!

America is a wonderful, amazing mix of people.  I’m an immigrant from the UK. You might be a first, second or other descendent of immigrants—unless you are from a First Nation people group.  We were not all raised the same and we don’t always have the same views on various issues.  But we all belong to one nation.

As followers of Jesus, we are also one.  We are one Body, we have one Spirit, we worship the Triune God.   We have one Word of God—the Bible which is our guide to living in a way that honors God and reflects who is Lord of our lives. (Ephesians 4:1-6)

I wish it weren’t true, but it seems we are once again in the middle of ugly political differences which comes from not being identical peas in the same pod!

I feel burdened to write about this and to encourage each of us to take personal responsibility, as representatives of Jesus, for what we say to, and about, those who see things differently. 

We are not the same peas in a pod, but we are woven together from many different threads.  These threads form a strong and varied tapestry—a work of beauty and strength where we each contribute our unique selves.  For this to happen, we need to apply God’s wisdom for how we treat one another.
 
Four Scriptures, among many, come to mind. Each is from the powerful life-coaching book of Proverbs. I need to remember and practice these,  and so do all of us who represent Christ to the world around us—whether that is our families, our community, or globally.

1. Control Yourself! Proverbs 11:12b. “A person of understanding holds their tongue.” As soon as you sense conflict, consciously take a deep breath, and mentally step back from the issue. We’re to live a life that is worthy of our calling—that means choosing to be humble and gentle, patient and forbearing with difficult people (Ephesians 4:1-3). When we ask for those qualities, the Holy Spirit gives them—right there in the moment!

2. Give a Soft Answer. Proverbs 15:1. “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Remember the powerful impact your tone of voice and choice of words make. To defuse a conflict, lower your voice, be conciliatory instead of harsh. Ask yourself, “What is this about? Is my reaction justified? Or do I just want to blow off steam?”

3. Should You Speak Up or Not? Proverbs 10:31. “The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom.” There are times to ignore someone’s negative comments and recognize we are all human. Giving grace and understanding is a powerful witness to Christ living in us. However, there are times when we must speak up for a truth or principle. In those cases, it is a loving (although difficult) step to take.

4. Remember You Represent Christ. Proverbs 29:23. “A person’s pride brings him low, but a person of lowly spirit gains honor.” When we feel disrespected or mistreated, it is easy to react from our old nature and respond in the way we are being treated. In doing this, we forget that we are God’s temple and God’s Spirit lives in us (1 Corinthians 3:16). We are Christ’s ambassadors, His representatives to this world. In difficult encounters, whether in person or online, we are called to respond in ways that honor God.

Let me ask you: Is God’s Spirit speaking to your heart about your attitudes—or your words? (He has to me at times, and I want to hear His voice!)

Let me encourage you: Take some preventative steps and pray about how the Lord wants you to represent Him. Be willing to listen and obey.

Then thank Him for His power that enables you to calm down and speak words that bring healing and unity.

Blessings,
Poppy