Social media is valuable for so many reasons: seeing pictures of friends, reading about new recipes, watching funny cat videos.

 

In recent years, it’s allowed us to stay in touch in ways we never imagined; we can even view weddings and funerals from afar, showing our support when we can’t physically be present.

 

But unfortunately, most of us don’t have to scroll far to see a strong opinion, leading to arguments, leading to fighting and, often, broken relationships.

We’re a world divided over so many issues: politics, religion, health and lifestyle choices—the list is endless. And just having an opinion on an issue isn’t enough. People will be mad when you say too much, or if you don’t say enough, or if you don’t say whatever it is in the right way.

 

Many of you reading this right now are feeling stressed just thinking about all of this. We don’t want that for you; we’re not meant to live our lives in a state of anxiety and worry (Philippians 4:6). And while there are plenty of reasons to speak out and to draw a line in the sand about where you stand, it’s also important to learn when to put those differences aside.

Psalm 133:1 says, “How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!”

 

What are you feeling right now? Do you feel pleasant and wonderful when you’re with your friends and family? Is there anything you can do to make relationships in your life more harmonious without setting aside the beliefs that guide your moral compass?

 

Here are some ideas to consider before engaging in discussion:

Is this a personal preference, or is this an important moral issue?

 

In the Chicago area, brawls have happened over the Cubs v. the White Sox debate, but most of us would acknowledge that is nothing more than a preference. When it comes to racism, most would say they have zero tolerance on that front. But for some issues, the line between preference and moral dilemma are a bit more difficult to discern.

 

Issues related to the pandemic, for instance, have been particularly divisive, with strong opinions on both sides. Can you align with someone who differs in opinion with you on issues of masks, vaccines, and social distancing? The answer to that is a personal one that all people have to answer for themselves. For any issue, think about how important the issue is before engaging. Is it really worth losing a friend over?

Will a division from others serve a purpose?

 

A powerful verse in Proverbs reads, “Wounds from a friend can be trusted, be an enemy multiplies kisses” (Proverbs 27:6, NIV).

 

Sometimes we need to engage in a discussion that hurts someone in order to expose truth. If we moved on and agreed with something morally or Biblically incorrect, we’d be an enemy to our friend. But for some things, debates just urge people to dig more deeply in their currently-held beliefs, and the only things gained are hurt feelings.

Are we engaging in discussion and education first?

 

Sometimes we hear a statement that strikes a nerve, and we follow our instincts to lash out. Harsh words have rarely helped change anyone’s mind, however.

 

While education and discussion might cost us some emotional labor, it also might introduce an open-minded person to a perspective they have never considered. You might not want to invest that emotional labor; that is completely understandable. But it just might be worth the investment to set change in motion in someone’s heart.

The best thing any of us can do is to listen. The world is a beautiful place because of our differences, not in spite of them. It’s healthy to engage with people who have different views, experiences, and perspectives than we do. It’s good to have an open mind and acknowledge that we may not already know everything. We can disagree and still have harmony, that pleasant and wonderful harmony. We all have something to learn from each other, so keep talking, but keep it kind.

Are you looking for more peace and harmony in your life?

 

If you’d like support, simply click the button below and fill out the form and we will pray for you, no strings attached.

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If you’d prefer if we called and prayed with you, just let us know and we will do that.

 

Of course, you can always visit Spirit of God Fellowship Sunday mornings at 10 a.m. and talk with us in person. Just go over to the welcome desk, right in the back, and we will pray with you and talk with you.

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