In today’s world, it feels like we’re constantly caught in the crossfire of a culture war. Every day, we’re faced with divisive issues—from political disagreements to debates over values that shape our society. Whether online or in person, people are divided, entrenched in their own beliefs, often battling to prove their point. It’s easy to be swept up in the intensity of it all, but as Christians, we are called to live differently. Rather than engaging in hostility, we are invited to step back and choose to live as citizens of God’s Kingdom, responding with love instead of anger.
The Battle We Are Truly Fighting
As Christians, our battle isn’t against other people. In Ephesians 6:12, Paul reminds us that “our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world.” While culture wars might seem like human-to-human conflicts, they are often fueled by unseen spiritual forces aiming to sow division, hatred, and fear. When we respond in anger, bitterness, or with insults, we lose sight of the spiritual nature of the conflict and fall into the very trap these forces set.
The Kingdom of God: A Different Way
Jesus came to establish a Kingdom that operates on different values than the world’s. While the world may encourage us to fight back, defend our stance, and cancel those who disagree, the Kingdom of God operates on principles of love, forgiveness, and humility. Jesus calls us to be peacemakers, to love our enemies, and to pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44). In choosing to live by these Kingdom values, we set ourselves apart from the battles waged by the world and become beacons of God’s light in the darkness.
Responding with Love
So how do we respond with love in the middle of a culture war?
- Seek Understanding Over Winning
It’s easy to engage in debates with the sole purpose of proving a point, but true love listens. Before jumping to conclusions, seek to understand the perspective of the person you disagree with. Even if you don’t come to agree with them, empathy opens the door to meaningful connection.
- Remember the Image of God in Everyone
Every person we encounter, even those we profoundly disagree with, is made in the image of God. When we keep this truth at the forefront of our minds, it becomes harder to dehumanize or vilify someone for their beliefs. Instead, we’re called to show them respect and dignity.
- Stand Firm in Truth, But in Love
Living in the Kingdom doesn’t mean compromising our beliefs or pretending that differences don’t exist. However, we are to stand for truth in a spirit of gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15). Jesus exemplified this perfectly—He never watered down His message, but He always approached people with compassion and love.
- Forgive and Release Bitterness
Culture wars often leave us feeling bitter and wounded, especially when we feel misunderstood or attacked. But in the Kingdom, we are called to forgive—freely and often. Holding onto anger only harms us and keeps us bound to the world’s way of thinking. Letting go and forgiving breaks the cycle of hostility and invites peace into our hearts.
Living as Ambassadors of God’s Kingdom
Ultimately, when we engage in culture wars through the lens of God’s Kingdom, we become ambassadors for Christ in a divided world. This doesn’t mean we shy away from standing up for what we believe, but it does mean we act with a different spirit—a spirit that reflects the love, grace, and mercy we ourselves have received from God.
In a world full of culture wars, choose love. Choose the Kingdom. Stand firm in love, bringing light and hope to a divided world.
Patrick Carden
I'm A Gracist 
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