How do you handle differences?

Are you tempted to lock horns with someone you disagree with?

The coming months in the United States will show the world, yet again, who Christians are by how we treat one another. So:

• How does God want you to respond to those whose views you do not share?
• How does He want you to handle your own feelings and strong views?

Are there some Biblical principles we all need to practice, regardless of our political views?

Thinking about our current situation, I’m concerned about how we represent Jesus, who said of himself, “I am gentle and humble in heart.” Is it more important to you (and I ask myself this also), to fight back against those who don’t share your views, your convictions, or your values in the hope of convincing them to see how right you are and how wrong they are?

Or is it more important to you to live as a disciple, one who responds to people like Jesus?

Four Proverbs for Potentially Ugly Situations

Four Scriptural responses to this struggle to know how to handle differences come to mind. Each is from the powerful life-coaching book of Proverbs. I need to remember it, 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