In our current day and age, politics have become especially polarizing and divisive.
Social media and constant access to the news cycle have only heightened the existing tension. Differences of opinion quickly turn into heated arguments. Unfortunately, it is easy for this same division to creep into the local church.
How can followers of Jesus stay unified in our current cultural climate?
It’s important to remember that unity starts with you. Unity in the church can only happen if individuals are seeking God above all else. If you are a follower of Jesus, then you’re called to live your life with a Christ-like spirit and character. You are to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you’ve received from God (Ephesians 4:1).
Paul explains what this looks like in Ephesians 4.
- We are to walk in humility – Which means having a healthy self-awareness of our strengths and weaknesses. We don’t compare ourselves to others but to Christ.
- We are to walk in gentleness – Gentleness can be described as strength under control. We do not seek to dominate or put others down. We are gentle and kind in our conversations and disagreements.
- We are to walk in patience – Like siblings need to be on a long road trip, we must bear with one another in love. This means we are patient with others, even when they frustrate us or we disagree.
If you are a Jesus follower, His Spirit empowers you to live your life in a way that honors God and reflects His character. When believers come together with our hearts and minds set on God and His Kingdom, unity can happen. But it has to start in our own hearts and lives first.
Where do you need to begin your pursuit of unity today? Think about your social media presence or conversations with others. How have you engaged with your family, your roommates, or colleagues lately?
Are you humble, gentle, and patient with those who disagree with you, or do you get defensive, closed-off, and shut down? Pray that God would help you to love those with whom you disagree.
Written by Bryant Wright, Founder, RFTH
