How Do I Love Others I Disagree with Politically?
Are you worked up about this year's election? If so, read this challenge before you start this politically charged week.
It's election season in America, and while much could be said about our national division, one of the most practical things Christians in the US can do this week is return to the basics and remember what it means to love others with whom we disagree.
A great way to do this is by looking at 1 Corinthians 13, often called “The Love Chapter.” The Apostle Paul writes in verses 1-3,
1 If I speak human or angelic tongues but do not have love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith so that I can move mountains but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 And if I give away all my possessions, and if I give over my body in order to boast but do not have love, I gain nothing.
Paul describes love as patient and kind, free from boastfulness, arrogance, or rudeness. Love does not insist on its own way or take pleasure in wrongdoing. Paul then outlines five aspects of love in verse 7 that build upon each other. He writes that true love “bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”
To “bear all things” means shielding and protecting others. This doesn’t imply hiding sin but involves choosing not to expose or exploit others’ shortcomings. Genuine love avoids exploiting others' flaws, extending to them the benefit of the doubt we hope others will grant us.
To “believe all things” means actively looking for the good in others. This doesn’t mean being naïve. Rather, it involves seeking reasons to think well of others and speak positively about them. Love sees the good before the bad, assuming innocence until proven otherwise.
To “hope all things” means that even when we have little reason to believe in someone, love holds on to hope. This hope is grounded in God's faithfulness, trusting in his redemptive work in people’s lives. When others give up, we continue to hope and pray for transformation.
To “endure all things” means having a love that withstands trials without giving up. It remains patient, enduring through criticism, resentment, and harsh words. Love isn’t ego-driven; it speaks up for the afflicted without mistreating others out of personal pride or revenge.
In verse 8, Paul adds that “love never ends.” Love has no expiration date. Even if people drift away, genuine love remains constant. When love bears, believes, hopes, and endures, it can’t fail. It’s a proven foundation for lasting relationships.
So...what does this mean?
Chances are that if you care about this election even a little bit, your love for others who vote and think differently than you will be tested this week.
A Christian you once admired will say something you don't like, that friend you respected will post an offensive political meme, or a family member will make an offhanded comment that gets under your skin. Expect this to happen.
When it does, be ready and arm yourself with the words of 1 Corinthians 13. Don't exploit someone else's flaws. Try to believe the best in them – even if you think they're a bit crazy politically. Desire the best for them. Put their interests above your own. Be patient when you're tempted to lash out.
And most importantly, keep on loving with no expiration date.
*Unless you specify otherwise, comments and questions you ask may be featured in upcoming podcast episodes.
[1]Craig Blomberg, 1 Corinthians, eds. Terry C. Muck, The NIV Application Commentary. Accordance electronic ed. (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1994), 261.
