Moving Toward Each Other in the Middle of a Divisive WorldSample

Understanding the Heart of God

One of the ways we can begin to build bridges over the chasm of differences is to focus on the character of God. Most of us sang songs as kids about Jesus loving the little children or are familiar with John 3:16 as it pertains to God loving the world, but there are other things we can learn from Scripture about people and things.

God cares about leaders.

Exodus 22:28 and Romans 13:1-2 both speak to respecting authorities. Although we may not be able to break bread with the leaders in our city, county, state, or federal government, we can and should pray for them. We should trust that God is in control and He is good.

God cares about our holiness.

Ephesians 4:21c-25 speaks to God’s design for believers being remade into the likeness of His Son for His glory, by His Spirit, and through the blood of His Son. It is clear that our holiness not only affects our relationship with Him, but also with our brothers and sisters in Christ.

God cares about peace.

“After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go. He told them, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves. Do not take a purse or bag or sandals; and do not greet anyone on the road. When you enter a house, first say, “Peace to this house.” If someone who promotes peace is there, your peace will rest on them; if not, it will return to you.’” Luke 10:1-6 NIV

ACTION STEP

In your opinion, is there a connection between being a peacemaker and focusing on the character of God? What is it?

When at odds with another, break bread before diving into your differences. Jesus did it with Zacchaeus the tax collector and his life was transformed.

Strike a balance between connection and correction. Invite someone with differing perspectives to share a meal. Pray that God would use the time to provide perspective and peace.