Rev. Richard Smith
January 16, 2023
Ephesians 4:5-6 (Words of The Apostle Paul)
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
Disagreeing with one another on key religious, social, ethical issues is not in itself an issue. Even passionately disagreeing can be okay. The problem comes when persons decide to castigate, to write off those with whom they disagree. How do we find constructive ways to interact with one another when the tensions are high?
Accept That None Of Us Have All The Answers
Accepting that one cannot claim absolute truth or knowledge is always the starting point to a healthy way of interacting with others. It leads to dialogue, to sincere listening, and to prospective relationship even in strong disagreement. Whoever you are, however deep your spiritual commitment, however Biblically studied you are, none of us can wear the badge of absolute wisdom; of absolutely knowing God’s will and intent.
Practice Civility And Sensitivity
Praying for and seeking to live with civility, humility, and sensitivity is foundational if we are going to have constructive conversations on critical matters. You and I cannot control how others respond or react, but we can be sure that our own tone and tenor are healthy; and are reflective of a Jesus-grounded life. One can be right on an issue, but also be wrong in the spirit of Jesus if we are insensitive, belligerent, and judgmental toward the ones with whom we disagree.
Constructively Discern Your Line In The Sand
There are matters of justice and goodness which simply cannot be tolerated. We should not tolerate any position of unacceptable mistreatment of others. We should not allow others to disdain those of different ethnic status or sexual orientation or religious conviction or gender status. We should not allow hateful and harmful words and actions to go unaddressed.
Again, however, with prayer, with God’s help, we must do our best, even as we draw the line, not to fall prey to unhealthy personal attacks and to denigration of those with whom we strongly disagree. We can strongly challenge their views and their actions without becoming the shallow persons they seem to be.
Indeed, Pray
I think people of religious faith have a responsibility – and opportunity – to draw upon God’s wisdom, God’s guidance, and God’s strength.
Pray for humility and honest awareness of your own selfhood.
Pray for insight into the Biblical references speaking to the issues.
Pray for strength to be as kind as possible.
Pray for discernment about the other person’s situation and background.
Pray to be able to live Romans 12:18: As is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
