Can we PLEASE stop the partisan divide?

Current Events
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On Saturday, the United States conducted a military operation in Venezuela and captured President Nicolas Maduro.

Since then, I’ve seen non-stop social media posts, not with reflection or measured thought, but with more of the same partisan yelling.

It’s exhausting.

It seems like anything President Trump does sparks an immediate firestorm, no matter the facts or the outcome. Doesn’t matter if he’s right…wrong…questionable…It’s just immediately, one side praises snarkily, the other side condemns, and neither side seems willing to truly listen.

I get that we live in a free country where debate is essential. But I’m troubled by the hate I see. And, it all seems to happen without the free and fair debate. Have we forgotten how to disagree without despising each other? Are we so addicted to social media, having our own voices heard (likes and shares, not actually heard), and to being right, that we’ve lost our sense of humility and shared responsibility?

I’m not asking everyone to agree. It’s ok that we don’t all agree.

I’m asking if we (the collective ‘we’ as a nation) can get back to speaking with more care.

After 250 years as a country, shouldn’t we be mature enough to aim higher than shouting matches, one-liners, and memes?

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Satan sets the course of the world. These social currents have been constructed for a purpose. We are told that we are not unaware of Satan’s devices.

The left and the right probably each think that the other side is what Satan is trying to advance. However, it might be that Satan wants to deceive those on the right into thinking there is hope that the world will turn right at the same time he is urging the left to higher levels of hatred.

From a biblical point of view we should expect the world to worsen until the rapture after which at least half of the worlds population will be killed during the tribulation.

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@JennyLynne; A noble aim, a commendable request, no doubt this quote (above) is an expression of the peace you have in your own heart, a settled confidence that you wish everyone posessed. I’m afraid, however, that what appears to be “immaturity” in the public discourse is actually an artifact of spiritual blindness; the pandemic condition of “lostness”.

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. (Ephesians 6:12)

While you point out the subject of our national partisan wrangling may be actions of the current president, history shows that the subjects of our arguments change often, but incessant quarreling persists. This is an age-old consequence of lacking faith. It is sure to proliferate among the lost, it too often crops up between the lost and the saved, but it should never appear within the ranks of those who are called to peace. This is the tragedy they call “friendly fire”, it is unnecessisarily destructive, and it is contrary to our testimony to the world of The Prince of Peace.

For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” But if you bite and devour one another, beware lest you be consumed by one another!

The Apostle then he shows us that our squabbles (contentions, dissentions, etc) are an expression, not of human immaturity, but of human “flesh”.

Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. (Galatians 5:14-21)

What does the Apostle offer as a remedy to this infighting?

I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.

Our instructions are not to try to change peoples minds about current affairs and such, but to present to the world the only hope of peace; to faithfully offer the “Good News”. This will require us to disengage from launching mortars, both at the world and toward our own troops, and reengage in modeling détente in the name of Jesus the long-awaited messiah.

Good work, I appreciate your contribution to the war-effort.

KP

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I really appreciate those views on this. Truly.

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I believe we are in the end times @JennyLynne

“You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come.” – Matthew 24:6

The Signs of the End Times
As we navigate our faith, we often find ourselves pondering the signs of the end times. The Bible speaks clearly about various signs that will precede the end, reminding us to be vigilant and prepared. These signs serve as warnings and should inspire us to strengthen our relationship with God and encourage one another in faith. When we see turmoil, conflict, and uncertainty, it is crucial that we keep our eyes on Jesus, seeking His guidance through prayer and scripture. We can trust that He will be with us every step of the way, providing hope and comfort in what can feel like overwhelming times. The signs of the end times urge us to share the love of Christ and the message of salvation with those who have not yet heard.

Matthew 24:6
“You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come.” – Matthew 24:6

Mark 13:7
“When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come.” – Mark 13:7

Luke 21:9
“When you hear of wars and uprisings, do not be frightened. These things must happen first, but the end will not come right away.” – Luke 21:9

Romans 8:22
“We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.” – Romans 8:22

2 Timothy 3:1
“But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days.” – 2 Timothy 3:1

Spiritual Warfare
As believers, we are called to recognize that our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces. This understanding of spiritual warfare equips us to stand firm in our faith during challenging times. We know that prayer, scripture, and the support of the Christian community are essential tools in our fight against the darkness. By putting on the full armor of God, we can protect ourselves and stand resolutely against the spiritual battles that arise. It is a reminder that we are not alone in our struggles and that the Lord fights for us. Together, we can wage this spiritual war through faith, community, and reliance on God’s Word. We must encourage one another as we face these challenges, reminding ourselves of the victory we have in Christ.

Ephesians 6:12
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” – Ephesians 6:12

2 Corinthians 10:4
“The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.” – 2 Corinthians 10:4

1 Peter 5:8
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” – 1 Peter 5:8

James 4:7
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” – James 4:7

1 John 5:4
“For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.” – 1 John 5:4

God’s Sovereignty in War
During times of confusion and conflict, we hold on to the truth that God is sovereign over all. In scripture, we find numerous examples of how God has used war to fulfill His purpose. This understanding can be comforting because it reassures us that nothing happens outside His control. Even in turmoil, He can work everything together for good for those who love Him. God’s sovereignty does not negate our responsibility to act justly and pursue peace; rather, it compels us to trust Him as we respond to the challenges we face. As we reflect on history and the lessons learned, we can see how God’s hand has guided His people through war and conflict. Taking heart in His sovereignty helps our faith to grow stronger.

Psalms 46:9
“He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire.” – Psalms 46:9

Isaiah 2:4
“He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore.” – Isaiah 2:4

Proverbs 21:31
“The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the Lord.” – Proverbs 21:31

Isaiah 45:7
“I form the light and create darkness, I bring prosperity and create disaster; I, the Lord, do all these things.” – Isaiah 45:7

Revelation 19:11
“I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice, he judges and wages war.” – Revelation 19:11

Peace in the Midst of Conflict
Even when surrounding chaos seems unbearable, we are reminded that God offers us His peace that surpasses all understanding. Often, peace feels elusive during wars and conflicts, yet it is in these moments we need it most. Scripture encourages us to cast our anxieties on Him and seek His comfort. By focusing on God’s promises, we can experience true peace. We can be agents of peace in our world by sharing His love and bringing hope to others. This peace encourages us to stand firm and shine brightly, even during challenging times of conflict. Together, we can pray for peace not just in our lives but around the world, believing that God can soften hearts and heal nations.

Stay strong.

J

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I used to read all the news online and it was not only exhausting, but frightening. Then my internet went out and there was no news. What a blessed relief in disguise. When the internet came back on, I didn’t resort to my old habit. I read enough to be informed, but not enough to get dragged into everyone’s opinion or fear. Now, it doesn’t bother me. I know what I can handle.

I don’t do most of the social media that is popular today. I’m new to this site and to chat in general. I’m finding it interesting, but I’m also surprised at the way some form their responses. It almost seems that insult or arguing is the intent behind the words. I could very well be wrong in this. No body language, facial expression or tone of voice makes it hard to know someone’s intent.

You could try taking a break and see if that works for you. If you do find yourself more peaceful, then maybe that’s the answer. Paul talks about this. He says,

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.“ Phil 4:8

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I’ve definitely had to take breaks before!

It just mostly makes me sad to see that so much hate is alive and thriving and from people who are basically my neighbors.

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@JennyLynne

Your strong desire for peace is an expression of the peace you have received in Christ (I suspect). It is commendable, and an testimony of the Prince of Peace who resides in you.

Going out on a limb: There are several teachings in the Bible that clue us into a surreptitious phenomenon, and that being human-beings generally notice character traits in others that they themselves possess, but may be unaware that they do.

People often despise some outward expression of a characteristic they see in someone else, that is integrally part of their own make-up. They may be extra-sensitive to seeing a temperament expressed by other people because they are intimately familiar with those same proclivities in their own lives. i.e. Those who point out injustice by another person are often people who are practicing injustice in other areas or circumstances. People who try to expose pride in others are usually prideful people. People who are outspoken in their intolerance of hate are very often very hateful people themselves. Quite often, folks who campaign to eliminate some public vice are privately victims of that vices stronghold in their own lives. They see it expressed outwardly in others because they are inwardly familiar with the telltale signs; they know what that “feels like” to be that way, they harbor the same “bent” themselves.

So, when we hear some public mouthpiece spouting invectives, criticisms, accusations, or inuendo about another person, we pray that they might be relieved of those same strongholds in their own life. One positive thing we might take away from the hateful rhetoric and divisive bickering is it incites us to pray, and it clues us into what to pray for.

This public forum is no exception.

My 2-cents
KP

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The phenomenon you describe is best named psychological projection, expressed ethically as hypocrisy, morally as judgmentalism, and spiritually as self deception, all of which Scripture treats not as weapons for accusation but as warnings that call for repentance, prayer, and sober self examination ~2 Corinthians 13:5, ~Psalm 139:23–24.

J.

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You have a strong ability to articulate your thoughts clearly and thoughtfully, firmly grounded in the Scriptures, brother KP.

Stay strong eis Messiah.

Love the blue, heavenly Amen.

J.