Real Hope: Opinion & DisagreementSample

The Fence

Society seems to have lost its ability to disagree well. Everyone has an opinion about everything and the moment you disagree with it, you’re accused of discrimination.

As followers of God’s Word, our beliefs and values are often at odds with society. Having a different opinion to people who don’t follow Jesus (and some who do) can be challenging because God’s ways are not in line with the world. And, as followers of Christ, our life should not mirror the world around us. So how do we share our beliefs in a divisive world without losing our faith or our grace for others?

We simply follow Jesus and His example. Jesus sat with the prostitutes and tax collectors and all those society deemed unsuitable; the marginalised and ostracised. He didn’t stand on the street corner and preach at them – He actually sat with them. Shared a meal with them. Poured out His love and grace to them. He maintained their dignity and listened to them. He was loving and kind. And when He walked away, people’s hearts were changed.

Jesus was deeply connected to the Father. And that’s the only way we can be a light to those around us while staying anchored in our faith; by staying connected to the Father and maintaining people’s dignity.

There will always be people who disagree with us, and that’s okay. Instead of focusing on what’s being said, let’s be more like Jesus and love people, no matter what side of the fence they sit on.

Written by LEILA ARMSTRONG