I was taught that at social gatherings it is usually best to avoid discussing religion or politics, because those subjects often lead to disagreement and resentment. Yet in the right setting, they can also invite honest reflection and self-examination.
Today, information is easy to access, but it is not always trustworthy. When something we read challenges our political or religious beliefs, the way we respond matters. Do we answer with anger, or do we choose love and tolerance?
Alcoholics Anonymous Tenth Tradition reminds us that the AA name should never be drawn into public controversy and that the fellowship has no opinion on outside issues. This tradition protects unity by calling its members to practice humility, respect, and restraint.
That leads to a deeper question: do our actions truly reflect our values? Do we practice what we preach? In moments of disagreement, the real test may be whether we choose love over hate.
The Apostle Paul addresses this tension in the Book of Romans, written during their reigning empire. He calls believers to live thoughtfully under governing authority:
“Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment.” — Romans 13:1–2
When I first read this passage, it unsettled me. I thought of the many evil leaders in history and wondered how God could allow such injustice. But as I read Paul’s words more carefully, I began to see his point more clearly: authority exists only because God permits it, and our response to authority is therefore also a spiritual matter. That is not an easy teaching, but it forces us to ask what faithful obedience looks like in a broken world.
Paul goes on to describe rulers as servants meant to uphold order and justice. So while we are called to respect authority, we must also keep a clear conscience and exercise discernment. We give respect where it is due, but when leaders act wrongly, we do not need to answer evil with evil. We can trust that God’s justice is not absent, even when it seems delayed. In the meantime, we are called to pray, remain watchful, and respond with integrity.
This week at church, I heard a message that connected this subject to my recent article on 1 Corinthians 13 and the call to love. Love does not “rejoice in wrongdoing,” which means we should not take pleasure in the downfall of those we oppose. To do so would only feed pride. Instead, we are called to pray for others and trust that God’s justice will come in His time.
That perspective frees me from the need to argue or prove myself right. I can rest in the knowledge that God is in charge.
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This article was a great read, and many reminders that I really needed to hear! Love & Tolerance is our code, in all matters. Can be difficult to follow thru with at times, but extremely important to practice.
Faithful obedience in a broken world–going to spend quiet time on this.
Thank You