America is the world's great melting pot. There are all kinds of ethnicities and races, and we can learn a lot from and about each other. We also have different beliefs, which is where things can get sticky. It's very easy to clash with each other in our opinions and who is right or wrong. I've seen relationships fall apart because of this, and it's heartbreaking. As Christians, how can we love those with different beliefs?
I first consider their background and where they are coming from. There are so many reasons people believe differently. Some people were raised in certain "religions," and that's all they know. Others have developed their own beliefs based on their perspective. Some have been treated horribly by Christians or have had terrible life circumstances and become atheists. Others have never heard of Jesus. Instead of getting upset or offended, I think about their background first and then try to figure out how to love them where they are at.
There are many ways to do this.
1. Listen
One of the best things you can do for someone who believes differently is to listen. Listen to what they are going through, what they are thinking, or what they are trying to figure out. This does not mean driving home a point or arguing. Many people don't always want advice or an answer; they just need you to listen. Who knows, you may be the person who answers their questions about the Lord if you listen long enough.
Instead of thinking about what we will say next, we should look for what we have in common with this person. They may have experiences that are like ours that we can relate to. The most important thing is to make them feel understood. When they feel that, they will feel loved.
"Spouting off before listening to the facts is both shameful and foolish." (Proverbs 18:13, NLT)
Related: Are You an Active Listener?
2. Stay Humble
Always stay humble. We acknowledge we aren't always right or that we may know of a better way. Being arrogant won't help anyone. We need to have enough respect for others to consider what they have to say. Seeing others as more important than ourselves and admitting when we are wrong is way more critical to reach people. As Christians, we are bound to get mocked and criticized, but how we respond shows where our heart is.
"Anyone who rebukes a mocker will get an insult in return. Anyone who corrects the wicked will get hurt. So don't bother correcting mockers, they will only hate you. But correct the wise, and they will love you. Instruct the wise, and they will be even wiser. Teach the righteous and they will learn even more. Fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgement." (Proverbs 9:7-10, NLT)
Related: 3 Beautiful Prayers for Humility
3. Be There for Those with Broken Hearts
Once again, there are situations where someone just needs you to listen. Sometimes it's for them to talk things out; other times, it's because they are going through a devastating life situation.
I have a friend going through this right now, and the best thing I know I can do is listen. It breaks my heart because she is like a sister to me. We've known each other since kindergarten. Sure, I give my opinion once in a while and agree with her on various points of view regarding the situation, but I just listen. I know that listening shows I empathize with her. I show her love this way and by sharing words of hope when I can.
"Don't use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them." (Ephesians 4:29)
Photo credit: ©GettyImages/ Maskot
4. Pray for Those Around Us
This is so, so, so important. As Christians, we are bound to be mocked and ridiculed by those with different beliefs. Instead of fighting back, hurling insults, or saying horrible, un-Christian-like things, we should pray for them. We should also pray for those around us with different beliefs if they haven't hurt or insulted us.
Several years back, I was involved in a situation like this, only to learn that this person had a lot of pain in their past. I still pray for them to this day and believe with all my heart that the Lord will get a hold of them in his perfect timing.
Related: How Should Christians Treat People of Other Faiths?
5. Stand and Rejoice in Truth
Even though we do our best to level and relate to those with different beliefs, it can sometimes still lead to strife. What can we do? We know arguing with people will not lead them to salvation, and we know we can't control how people respond to us. This can be heartbreaking when you are dealing with someone who isn't saved, and you can see from the outside how desperately they need Jesus.
However, we can control how we respond to them. How do we do this? By putting our faith in God and praising him in all circumstances. Instead of praying that they come to see things our way, we should pray that they see things God's way. I will pray, "Lord, I pray you will open this person's heart, mind, and soul in a way that is unique to them. That they will know that it came from you." I think the Lord reaches people in different ways so they know that it's him. He may speak to one person in their spirit while having to make something big (either bad or good) to get someone else's attention.
"Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as Christ has forgiven you." (Ephesians 4:31-32, NLT)
"And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." (John 8:32, NLT)
Eternal Perspective
The point is we need to look at these people with an eternal perspective, looking forward to seeing them in heaven, free from what burdens them. Instead of acting like the world, we must act like the one above us. We need to see them as the Lord sees them. Even though we disagree with their beliefs, they still have a purpose, worth, and value, and the Lord can turn their hearts at any time.
Even though it can be hard when we are being mocked or harassed by others, striking back is never the correct response. Mirroring their response only makes us look bad and confirms how they think we really are. Instead, we should take a step back and see where we can show them some love and compassion. Our reactions today may lead to their salvation and eternity with Jesus tomorrow, looking back at our response and seeing us as the true Christians that we are.
Originally published Tuesday, 22 August 2023.