We are meant for community! In the very beginning of Genesis, God said that it is not good for man to be alone. Jesus said that the second greatest commandment is to love your neighbor as yourself. The book of Acts said that the believers gathered together in unity to share meals and resources, and people were added to their number daily.
In the past several years the world and people have become increasingly divided. Polar views on almost everything. In fact it is hard to find any subject that any number of people agree on. The government is telling us that we need to stay at least 6 feet apart and literally canceled family gatherings over the last several holidays!
So what happened?
We have a common enemy! And it is not your neighbor. We have an enemy that has been trying to separate us from God and each other since the beginning of time. This enemy tells you that if someone doesn’t agree with you, they must be racist or a domestic terrorist (which seriously dilutes what true racism and terrorism really is). This enemy tells you that if you want something, then you take it. This enemy tells us that if someone looks different than you, then you can’t possibly have anything in common with them and you should hate them. This enemy tells you that mob violence is better than the rule of law. This enemy is tearing us apart!
But what does God tell us? He tells us that we should have love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. He tells us that we shouldnt be selfish, but to be humble and think of others as better than ourselves. He tells us that if we want something that we should ask for it and He will provide all that we need. He tells us that we should respect and honor those in authority, for they are placed there by Him.
Let me ask you, which way sounds better?
The only way to build quality relationships is to spend time together. If you disagree with someone, invite them over for a meal. Get to know them and let them know you. You never know, they might turn out to be your best friend!
“A friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of need.” Proverbs 17:17 NLT