Influence. Power. Conflict. Authority. Divisive. Complex. Toxic. Messy.

These are just a few things we associate with the word “politics.” As our nation prepares for the upcoming elections this May, the impact of these concepts has become more tangible, and the significance of politics is increasingly apparent.

Political discussions have become a part of our daily lives—whether on our screens, on campuses, in workplaces, or even within our own homes. These conversations, often heated and challenging, evoke a wide range of emotions. Some may feel anxious or pressured, while others might respond with indifference.

As a spiritual family, we have opportunities to engage in healthy dialogues about important issues, especially during this election season.

How can we encourage healthy conversations on politics while ensuring that everyone feels respected and heard?

Let us explore these practical and Christlike ways to engage thoughtfully in these discussions.

1. Remember God and ask Him for wisdom.

Before engaging in political discussions, let’s remember to put God first. We are accountable to Him for both our words and actions. The good news? He promises wisdom to those who ask Him. So seek His guidance in prayer, and don’t forget to pray for those you’ll be speaking with, too.

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. (James 1:5, ESV)

Reflect: Am I fully relying on God’s wisdom in this election season?

2. Extend grace and respect others.

Our diverse cultures and backgrounds shape the political values of every person differently. Acknowledging this reality means recognizing that we may need others’ insights to pave the way for healthy and godly conversations.

Let’s ask God for grace to see each person the way He sees them. Every individual, including yourself, deserves to be listened to and respected.

Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace. (Ephesians 4:2-3, NLT)

Reflect: How can I be an extension of God’s grace to others?

3. Engage in face-to-face conversations.

The medium and setting of a conversation matter. While many of us are used to expressing ourselves online, discussions that involve deeply held beliefs and emotions are often better handled face-to-face. This creates space for genuine dialogue, where questions and feedback are more easily welcomed. It also helps reduce misunderstandings and makes room for greater empathy. 

It’s important to remember that disagreement doesn’t have to lead to division. We can hold differing views without making the conflict personal. May we be mindful of each other’s feelings—speaking the truth in love and listening with the intent to understand, not just to respond with our assumptions or biases.

Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person. (Colossians 4:6 ESV)

Reflect: What’s holding me back from engaging in face-to-face conversations about politics in church?

4. Trust that Jesus is Lord over the past, present, and future.

Jesus is the King of kings and the Lord of lords. He is the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End. We can trust Him through all the shifting realities we face.

No matter how things turn out, we can remain hopeful because our God is on our side. Let us also remember that our true battle is not against our fellow countrymen but “against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world…” (Ephesians 6:12 KJV).

The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes. (Proverbs 21:1 NKJV) 

Reflect: What am I hopeful for about the future of our nation?

Political conversations aren’t always easy, but when we talk about politics with our spiritual family or within small group settings in a godly manner, we create a healthy space for open dialogue. Ultimately, doing so glorifies and honors God, who is “gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love” (Psalm 145:8 ESV).

As we navigate this election season, let us remember to reflect Christ’s character in every conversation. May we see political discussions as opportunities to seek God together, uplift our nation in prayer, and build each other up.

“whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together” (Colossians 1:16-17)

🎧 Dive deeper into this topic by listening to the Politics and Christian Participation episode of the Leading Together podcast.