How do we love others even when we disagree?

I don’t particularly enjoy watching the news on television. Yes, I want to stay current on what is going on in the world, but there's so much negativity. I’m probably not the only one in my generation who feels this way.

I not only see it on the news stations but all over social media. I’m sure some folks have well-meaning intentions. Still, however, the truth is that words hurt. I’ve seen good people tearing others down because they don’t agree. The subjects are a wide variety - religion, politics, county decisions, and more. It truly breaks my heart. Words hurt.

So, how do we show love in these moments? It’s hard. Especially if we were hurt by it all. I know I don’t want to be kind with my first response. My first inclination is not to show love.

Jesus speaks very clearly about how to treat others.

John 13:34-35 NIV

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

Jesus doesn’t hem and haw about how to handle situations. It’s not an “if/when” scenario, it’s a command. We don’t get an easy out.

LOVE.

By the way, we handle ourselves in the face of adversity, we can point others to Christ. We don’t have to agree on everything or be best friends with everyone. The way we respond can say a lot about us.

I saw Louie Giglio, pastor of Passion City Church Atlanta, share a post recently that was solid.

“Maturing is realizing how many things don’t require your comment.”

Mic drop.

It’s so true. I think there are times when it’s better if we just keep our mouths shut. Like our mothers and grandmothers always said, “If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all.” There’s much truth to this.

The Bible calls us to share love. Not point fingers, judge, talk behind their back, or make a post or comment that openly puts someone down. A lot is happening in our world right now. A lot of new lifestyle changes and ways of life. You can see and feel a lot of tension in workplaces, friend groups, and even in our churches.

I want to be clear, I don’t think God is asking us to tolerate differing views. We aren’t being called to change our views or beliefs or speak out publicly that things are right vs. wrong. We aren’t being told to tolerate abuse of any kind or be proud of inappropriate behavior.

God has blessed us with knowledge and wisdom to know the difference between right and wrong. With this knowledge also comes the ability to abuse this gift. Instead, Scripture teaches us that by our actions they will know we love Jesus. Living with an attitude of love towards everyone can set us apart.

Living with a Heavenly mindset makes all of the difference. It doesn’t take away hurt or evil or even differing opinions. Your demeanor and calm response could be the saving grace to someone today. We don’t have to agree on everything to be kind. And in a world as broken as ours, kindness matters so very much.

Matthew 5:16 Amplified Bible

Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good deeds and moral excellence, and [recognize and honor and] glorify your Father who is in heaven.