Quick Answer: Find our unifying themes… like Jesus and discipling people. Forgive because we need it too. Fight for unity, not to win arguments.
In the past fews years, political divisions have split families, friends, and even church communities. These rifts often run deep, creating tension and division over values, beliefs, and even faith itself. But as followers of Christ, we’re called to a higher standard—to love, to forgive, and to unify under one banner: the Gospel. Now, as the dust settles after the election, it’s time to focus on reconciliation and mending the fences between us. Let’s explore what Scripture says about healing our divisions and look at some actionable steps to restore unity.
1. Remember Our True Identity.
Scripture:
“But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” – Philippians 3:20
As believers, our first and foremost identity is not in our political affiliations but in our citizenship in God’s Kingdom. When we remember this, we can rise above our earthly allegiances and place Christ and His mission at the center of our lives.
Action Step:
Spend time in prayer asking God to remind you of your heavenly citizenship. Write down areas where you may have allowed political beliefs to overshadow your identity in Christ. This exercise can help center your perspective on what truly matters. Also, see the other person as made in the image of Christ.
2. Seek Forgiveness and Be Willing to Forgive.
Scripture:
“And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
Forgiveness is central to our faith. Jesus instructs us to forgive because we have been forgiven. Harboring bitterness or resentment only weighs down our hearts and blocks God’s healing work. Even if you truly believe what someone else is promoting is evil, having bitterness does not reach them or help you. Instead, pray for them. Ask God to give you eyes to see. You may find their “evil belief” is because of a deep wound. Then you’ll realize how to engage them more effectively.
Action Step:
Take the initiative to reach out to anyone you may have wronged during the election season. Whether it was a harsh word, a misunderstanding, or a prolonged silence, seek forgiveness and be open to forgiving them as well. This can be done through a message, phone call, or face-to-face conversation.
3. Focus on What Unites Us.
Scripture:
“I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.” – 1 Corinthians 1:10
The world sees enough division; our calling is to show what true unity looks like. Although we may have different perspectives, we all stand united by our shared faith in Jesus. We may not agree on every issue, but we can agree on the Gospel, which is bigger than any political divide. Jesus has called us to make disciples. This is an apolitical calling. If we focus on sharing the Good News of Jesus and walking with people toward freedom, we may find it leads us toward more agreement than we realize.
Action Step:
Do your own research. What do you truly believe about the Gospel and making disciples? Then, schedule a meeting with someone who you’ve had trouble with in the past. Ask them to do research as well before you meet. When you meet, look for reasons to unite and move forward. This can help redirect attention to the faith that binds us together.
4. Practice Humility.
Scripture:
“Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3
Humility allows us to listen, understand, and empathize with those who may see things differently. Instead of seeking to “win” an argument, we should seek to understand one another. Humility doesn’t mean compromising on convictions; it means showing respect and love, even when we disagree.
Action Step:
Commit to actively listening to those with whom you disagree. Consider asking them about their journey or perspective on key issues. Seek to understand their heart and story rather than judging their stance. Empathy is a bridge-builder.
Example:
Anyone who knows me knows I am vehemently against abortion. I used to not be able to understand anyone who felt otherwise. Then, I listened to someone who had had an abortion earlier in their life. The bottom line was they needed to believe it wasn’t wrong because they could not handle what they had done if the alternative was true. When I realized this was not a factual issue but an emotional issue and the fear they had killed a baby, it changed the dynamic. I did not change my belief but DEFINITELY changed my thoughts toward the other person. It helped me to have much more empathy. This person was not bad. They were broken hearted at what might have happened.
5. Pursue Peace and Reconciliation.
Scripture:
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” – Matthew 5:9
As Christians, we’re called to be peacemakers. The peace Jesus offers is more than the absence of conflict; it’s about wholeness and reconciliation. We are called to be agents of this peace, reaching out, forgiving, and working towards unity, even when it’s difficult.
Action Step:
Pray about how you can be a peacemaker in your own community. This may involve inviting someone to coffee for an open conversation, or simply letting go of the need to be “right” in a disagreement. Actively look for ways to bridge gaps with grace and love.
6. Lean on the Holy Spirit for Help.
Scripture:
“If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” – Romans 12:18
We can’t achieve unity on our own strength. Mending fences takes courage, patience, and love—qualities that only the Holy Spirit can fully cultivate in us. Pray that He will fill you with the strength to be an agent of peace and unity.
Action Step:
Set aside time each day to pray specifically for healing in your community. Ask the Holy Spirit to soften hearts, open minds, and bring restoration. Pray for the courage to take steps toward mending relationships that have been strained by division.
7. Remember That Love Covers Over a Multitude of Sins.
Scripture:
“Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.” – 1 Peter 4:8
We all have fallen short and made mistakes in the heat of the moment. But God’s love is greater than our differences. When we choose to love one another, even through disagreement, we honor Christ and reflect His heart to the world.
Action Step:
Commit to showing love, even when it’s hard. Whether through words of encouragement, acts of service, or simply choosing to overlook an offense, let your love be the bridge that brings healing.
The divisions we face are real, but they do not have to define us. As the Church, we have an opportunity to show the world what true unity in Christ looks like. By remembering our identity, seeking forgiveness, focusing on our shared faith, and relying on the Holy Spirit, we can mend the fences that have divided us. May we strive to be the “light of the world” (Matthew 5:14), shining in unity, love, and grace, as a testimony of the One who unites us all.
