Coaching for Handling a Divisive Election

He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy… This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good.These things are excellent and profitable for everyone. But avoid foolish controversies… Warn a divisive person once, and then warn them a second time. After that, have nothing to do with them. You may be sure that such people are warped… - Titus 3:5, 8-11

Paul is writing a church leader (Titus) in a community that has a history of being divisive and judgey. He tries to redirect to the positive things that Titus can say YES to instead of spending all of his time saying NO to the negative. That’s why Paul spends most of the time in this little book on the awesome person of Jesus and the high call of following him.

Of course, the negative, divisive, and destructive elements in any town or community will continue to exist, and so Paul does give some coaching there. For one, he suggests avoiding unnecessary controversies. Then he points out that there are certain people who will constantly try to disrupt the community, and grace-filled but clear boundaries need to be placed around them to limit the energy expended on the drama that comes with them.

As this intense election season starts to rise to its climax, how are you doing at what Paul teaches about here? What are the positives that you can stay focused on - and are there simple practices that will keep you centered on Christ these days? (Consider sharing with a friend some goals for this positive input).

And who are the negative influences that keep disrupting your community with foolishness or unnecessary controversies? Are there some boundaries you need to set around your use of social media or the news or a particular person? (Consider sharing with a friend some goals for these limits).