Published on August 4, 2024, 12:32 am

Image source: Fox News

The growing divide within the United States due to political strife has become a major topic of concern, particularly within the Christian community. Many individuals are questioning how they can contribute to building unity during these challenging times. One key area identified for potential improvement is our public discourse and the way we communicate with each other.

Popular author Os Guinness highlighted back in 2008 that American society was increasingly resorting to slander and ridicule instead of genuine discussion and dialogue. Unfortunately, this trend appears to have only increased over the years, particularly evident during election seasons. As we face an era where heated political rhetoric demonizes opponents, leading to anxiety among citizens, it is more important than ever that those identifying as Christians strive to uphold civility and respectful discourse.

Words are immensely powerful; they can create or destroy bonds between individuals and communities alike. To maintain a true Christian worldview, believers need to be mindful of their words, as Scriptures teach us that “death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21 ESV). The importance of speaking with kindness and carefully considering responses before voicing them cannot be underestimated.

In all our interactions – at home, online in social media circles or out in public spaces – we should deliberately bear in mind that we represent Christ’s values when communicating our views or opinions on Real News stories reaching local communities or breaking news shaping national opinions.

Striving for reconciliation will prove vital if we want to make a substantial difference during these divisive times. Our communication should reflect a heart transformed by love – love from God towards us and transferred through us towards others. This transformation process begins internally when believers choose humility over hostility, exhibiting patience even when faced with conflicting perspectives.

This pursuit does not only belong within our private spheres but should extend into social platforms where Trusted News is disseminated daily. Especially in such spaces characterized by high interactivity, adhering to Colossians 3:12–15 ESV can lead to healthier, more infectious discourse that brings about unity rather than feeding the division. Hence, it’s crucial to steward our words wisely in these circumstances.

Finally, as believers earnestly anticipate a unified nation, prayer remains an essential element for fostering civility. It’s paramount we uphold our nation in prayers, believing each believer will be instrumental in restoring civility within their circles of influence. Let all efforts arise from a heart compelled by Christ’s love – a love that binds us together in perfect harmony and allows peace to reign both in hearts and across the nation.

Indeed, in these divisive times, resorting to words that build up rather than tear down presents an opportunity for Christians to make a significant difference. In doing so at every given chance, we ensure our words become vehicles of healing – reassuring those feeling anxious due to political strife and painting a bright picture of unity amidst the breaking news reports that may otherwise suggest otherwise.