If At All Possible . . . Live at Peace

We shouldn’t be surprised with the ruling that came down from the Supreme Court concerning gay marriage. The more secularized the United States has become over the last 50 years decisions like this are going to happen. So what should a Christian’s response be to the decisions that go against their core beliefs? The way Christian’s respond is so important.

First, we can never forget that we are dealing with people. While we may disagree with each other we are all people in need of a redeeming God. We can’t come across arrogant or dismissive because each of us have dealt with and are dealing with sinful issues of our own.

Second, disagree respectfully. Defend your values with all your heart but don’t be argumentative. Don’t resort to name calling or labeling others. Be confident in your defense. Ask questions to gain a better understanding of someone else’s opinion. When someone turns it into an argument and starts using name calling as a tactic—walk away. Don’t get caught up in the intolerance of others.

Third, pray for the consequences that will arise from these kinds of decisions. When emotional decisions are made whether they are personal or national, there are consequences that have not been thought through. Pray for wisdom to say the right thing and to react the right way. Jesus even said, “Pray for those who persecute you.”

Finally, Love Wins. Here is a new twist to all the “#lovewins” I have seen over the last few days. Jesus tells us that the second greatest command is to love people. In the Sermon on the Mount he tells us to love our enemies not just those who agree with us, but everyone. When we are able to discuss issues out of “love” rather than “hate” it changes the culture. When love wins it does not divide—even when there are disagreements.

For those who may read this that have been hurt by Christians who disagree with you, but have done it disrespectfully, have labeled you, have been hateful, have come across dismissive or arrogant—I apologize because that is not the way of Jesus.

Even though Jesus did not defend our sinful nature he always saw us as people who need grace and mercy. He always respectfully disagreed. He always prayed for us to be one and wanted us to avoid the consequences of all sin. Ultimately, it is His love for us that wins and it is that love that made him attractive to the people he comes in contact with even today.

Romans 12:18-21