A highly charged and divisive election season is in full swing. Perhaps it is leading to tension and resentment among those with whom you interact. If so, you might find the following Scripture verses of use as they offer perspective and guidance on fostering peace and understanding.
Know this, my beloved brethren. Let every man be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger, for the anger of man does not work the righteousness of God (James 1:19-20).
In conversation, listening is more important that speaking. It is not always easy to listen and bite one’s tongue, however it is a skill that can allow us to manage conflicts more peacefully.
A mild answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger (Proverbs 15:1).
This verse underscores the power of words in conflict situations. We are often told to choose our words wisely, and this is particularly the case in sensitive situations. Therefore, we should try to consider what value our words have in attempting to prove a point. Are our words helpful in deescalating a situation and creating a more peaceful atmosphere that can lead to resolution?
Do nothing from selfishness or conceit, but in humility count others better than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others (Philippians 2:3-4).
By employing Gospel values in our consideration of others' interests and valuing them, we can help foster a more caring and cooperative environment.
Bear with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive (Colossians 3:13).
There are a thousand objections to forgiveness, but there is one argument in support of it that is stronger than all objections: if we do not forgive, we die. The alternative to forgiveness is destruction in one form or another. In fact, extending forgiveness to others is necessary if we hope to receive the ongoing forgiveness of the Father (cf. Matthew 6:14-15).
If possible, so far as it depends upon you, live peaceably with all (Romans 12:18).
Peacemaking is part of our mission as Christians (cf. Matthew 5:9; Hebrews 12:14; James 3:18). Since harmony is sometimes impossible, St. Paul qualifies his command, recognizing that peace cannot be forced on others (cf. CCC 2304).
David J. Conrad
Know this, my beloved brethren. Let every man be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger, for the anger of man does not work the righteousness of God (James 1:19-20).
In conversation, listening is more important that speaking. It is not always easy to listen and bite one’s tongue, however it is a skill that can allow us to manage conflicts more peacefully.
A mild answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger (Proverbs 15:1).
This verse underscores the power of words in conflict situations. We are often told to choose our words wisely, and this is particularly the case in sensitive situations. Therefore, we should try to consider what value our words have in attempting to prove a point. Are our words helpful in deescalating a situation and creating a more peaceful atmosphere that can lead to resolution?
Do nothing from selfishness or conceit, but in humility count others better than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others (Philippians 2:3-4).
By employing Gospel values in our consideration of others' interests and valuing them, we can help foster a more caring and cooperative environment.
Bear with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive (Colossians 3:13).
There are a thousand objections to forgiveness, but there is one argument in support of it that is stronger than all objections: if we do not forgive, we die. The alternative to forgiveness is destruction in one form or another. In fact, extending forgiveness to others is necessary if we hope to receive the ongoing forgiveness of the Father (cf. Matthew 6:14-15).
If possible, so far as it depends upon you, live peaceably with all (Romans 12:18).
Peacemaking is part of our mission as Christians (cf. Matthew 5:9; Hebrews 12:14; James 3:18). Since harmony is sometimes impossible, St. Paul qualifies his command, recognizing that peace cannot be forced on others (cf. CCC 2304).
David J. Conrad
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