Political Differences in Marriage - Crosswalk Couples Devotional - March 21
Political Differences in Marriage
By: Vivian Bricker
"And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity." (Colossians 3:14)
Growing up, I witnessed several fights between my parents over political matters. My mom and dad were the exact opposite of one another when it came to politics as one was a Democrat and the other was a Republican. While many people think this isn't a big issue when it comes to marriage, I first-hand experienced the strain it can place on a marriage. Even though a divorce was not the result of the constant arguments every election season, it was a serious problem within their relationship.
When we reflect upon the present time, we see how politically heated things have become. Sadly, politics have the ability to destroy friendships and relationships. Even though all believers should know Jesus is our Lord, not a politician, many Christians place too high a view on a president, governor, or mayor. In this way, they have turned this individual into an idol.
Rather than allowing politics to infringe on your friendships or marriage, it is important to respect one another and have healthy conversations regarding politics. Sometimes this might mean not talking about politics at all, which can be hard for some people; however, it is more important to save your marriage than to watch political matters destroy it.
Political matters can quickly turn into morals and ethics, and if you and your spouse disagree with these matters, too, it can cause further damage. Therefore, it is most beneficial to work through these difficult matters in a healthy and productive way. If you are not sure how to do that, turn to the Lord in prayer, ask for His help, and be willing to listen to His direction in His Word. If you do not hear from Him in His Word right away, just give it time and keep praying.
Searching out for God's answer will prove to be fruitful. Praying for you and your spouse will also prove to be paramount in moving forward in your marriage. Talk with your spouse after you have prayed, reflected on God's Word, and listened to His guidance. Open a healthy discussion about the issues at hand and be willing to listen to their side of things. You might find you have more in common with each other than you thought.
Now, there could still be numerous arguments to erupt, but it is best to handle these matters with grace. As far as it is within your control, choose to be peaceful, kind, and caring. Try to remember that your spouse is not your enemy. They are the love of your life and the person you will spend the rest of your life with. Remembering this can help you push forward even when frustration, anger, or indifference is growing inside you.
Politics is damaging, but it doesn't have to be. When we turn to the Bible, we can work through any problem. We just have to wait and rely on God. He will help us face anything, and this includes a difficult political conversation with our spouse. This one conversation might open up other conversations in the future, but take heart—God will still be with you in these moments as well.
The Bible tells us, "And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity" (Colossians 3:14). These words were written by Paul, under the divine inspiration of the Holy Spirit. With the discussion at hand, we need to take these words to heart. We must put love on like a garment as love binds all other virtues together in perfect unity. Allow love to cover your marriage rather than differences within political matters.
Love matters more than anything. At the end of the day, your spouse is on your team and they love you. Remembering this can help you get through a difficult conversation and come out on the other side with the same love you have for your spouse. God will bring this love back into your heart when you most need it. And sometimes, the differences will just have to be put aside in order to preserve the marriage. Your marriage is much more important than a political party.
"Dear God, my spouse and I have many political differences, which is causing our marriage to have troubles. I don't want to be at odds with my spouse because I love them. Please help my spouse and I to work through these difficulties with the help of Your Word and turning to You in prayer. I praise You and I thank You, God. Amen."
Related Resource: Engaging with God in a Technology-Saturated World
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