Our culture is so divided that people place disagreement with others on the same level as intolerance or hatred.
In contrast to that attitude are two American forefathers, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, who demonstrated how to debate issues vigorously while treating one another with respect and civility.
Adams and Jefferson stood shoulder-to-shoulder through the American Revolution. But in the years following the signing of the Declaration of Independence, political differences made them bitter rivals. Yet, through it all, they decided they were Americans first and political opponents second. They treated one another with respect and dignity even though they passionately disagreed about certain issues. In fact, their friendship and goodwill toward each other remained unbroken until they died only five hours apart on July 4, 1826.
In the midst of our country’s division, there are many opportunities for Christians to be a unifying force as people of peace. How?
Joining me on Focus on the Family with Jim Daly to discuss this topic is Brady Boyd, the senior pastor of New Life Church in Colorado Springs, to share how Christians can navigate a polarized political climate with kindness and tolerance.
Brady says maintaining a peaceful relationship with people who disagree with us is crucial to living as a Christ-like witness. He shares several tips to navigate these relationships:
- Don’t be easily offended. Instead, respond gently, look for truth in the criticism, and seek God’s presence in that person’s life.
- Choose your words carefully. Speak words that give life instead of shame, condemnation, or judgment.
- Trust God.
Hear my full conversation with Brady Boyd on your local radio station, online, on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or listen on our free phone app.
Before I close, I’d like to extend an invitation for you to become a special partner with us through our monthly “Friends of Focus on the Family” program. When you do, I’ll send you a copy of Brady’s book Life-Minded: 8 Practices for Belonging to God and Each Other as a way of saying thank you for touching others with the love of Christ. You’ll also receive member-exclusive benefits. To make your pledge, or for more information, click here or call 1-800-A-FAMILY (232-6459).
