From God comes…
From God comes the ability for Christians to be of one mind. 1 Peter 3:8-9 says, “Finally, all of you be of one mind…”
A dictionary explanation of one mind means to have the same opinion or same desire. To find two Christians who think the same, feel the same, and view things the same way might not happen until Christ returns. After all, God created us to be diverse. Plus, we all have different life experiences and backgrounds. However, it may be possible to have the same desire. That desire should be to live a Christian life reflecting the attributes of God.
Those attributes are emphasized as this passage continues which says we should have compassion for one another, love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous, not return evil for evil or reviling for reviling. (1 Peter 1:8-9) In other words, we want to have the mind of Christ. (1 Corinthians 2:16)
No where is this concept of having one mind tested more than when two Christians discuss politics. Have you noticed we are in an election year? Emotions run high. We all have personal candidate favorites and can be very intolerant with those who do not share our preferences. It is difficult to respond in kindness and show love to those with whom we disagree. Especially when we know we are right and they are wrong.
What can we do? We can pray for the wisdom to reflect Christ when we engage in political discussions. Discussing is different that debating. It includes give and take responses. Debates try to convince others our view is right and their view is wrong. Many times, it results in angry words. Proverbs 15:1 says, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
Whether we agree with another’s politics or not, we want our interaction with them to result in peace, not conflict. (Ephesians 4:3) Therefore, we might want to guard against being baited or provoked into volatile conversations where neither party will be glorifying God. (1 Corinthians 10:31; Colossians 3:17) Instead, we should ask God to fill us with His love and peace. Only God can change our inner thoughts and minds so we focus on what is important to Him.
We sometimes forget that presidents will come and go. Only God remains constant and is ultimately in control. (Hebrews 13:8) God is our only hope. Campaign promises often fade into the atmosphere after the election. I’m sure you’ve heard that not all fairy tales begin with “Once upon a time…” Some start with, “If elected, I promise…” We seek security in an elected official, but only God can deliver on promises He makes.
It’s an election year. We are all entitled to vote and share our opinions—but in a godly way—with humility, courtesy, and kindness. Those who have the one mind of Christ know how to respectfully agree to disagree about politics.
“Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God…”
~James 1:17 (NLT)
