We live in a time when – more than ever before – political differences are creating deep divisions even among close family and friends. Conversations quickly turn heated, relationships feel strained, and sadly the current trend is to cut people off altogether to avoid the tension. But followers of Jesus are called to something higher.
If you’re struggling with how to protect – or repair – a relationship that has been damaged by a disagreement related to opposing political views or convictions, here are a few important things to keep in mind:
Choose Relationship Over Winning
Political debates often become about proving a point rather than listening and understanding. But Jesus didn’t call us to win arguments—He called us to love people. Instead of trying to change someone’s mind, focus on keeping the relationship strong. Ask questions, listen with empathy, and resist the urge to respond in anger.
“Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.” – Romans 12:18
Speak with Grace and Truth
Ephesians 4:15 tells us to “speak the truth in love.” This means we don’t compromise our convictions, but we express them in a way that reflects Jesus’ character. If our words lack grace, they won’t be heard. If they lack truth, they won’t be meaningful. The goal isn’t to avoid hard conversations but to have them in a way that honors God.
“Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.” – Colossians 4:6
Remember Where Your True Allegiance Lies
Before you are a Republican, Democrat, Independent, or anything else, you are a citizen of the Kingdom of God. Our first and ultimate allegiance is to Jesus, not a political party or ideology. If our faith is rooted in Christ, it should shape how we engage in political conversations—with humility, love, and a desire for unity, not division.
“But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior.” – Philippians 3:20
Don’t Let Politics Become an Idol
When we get more fired up about politics than we do about the Gospel, something is off. If a disagreement over policy makes us angrier than sin and brokenness in the world, we may have made politics an idol. Jesus never asked for or promised political unity, but He did command us to love one another (John 13:34-35).
“You must not have any other god but me.” – Exodus 20:3
Pray for Wisdom and Peace
If political differences are creating distance in your relationships, take it to God. Ask Him for wisdom on when to speak and when to stay silent. Pray for the people you disagree with—not that they’d change their views, but that God would work in their lives (Matthew 5:44). Prayer has a way of softening our hearts toward others.
“If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” – James 1:5
At the end of the day, we are not called to be right
We’re called to be full of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). The world will know we follow Jesus by our love, not by our political positions. So, let’s choose faith over politics, love over division, and relationships over winning.
