A Layman’s Reflection on What Divides Us and What Heals Us
Lately, it feels like everywhere you turn—whether it’s the news, politics, or even inside our churches and families—people are picking at each other, talking behind backs, slandering, and arguing just for the sake of it. The Administration, politicians, even fellow believers—nobody seems to be immune from this back-and-forth. But if we’re honest, all this nitpicking and gossip does is stir up trouble and keep us divided.
The Bible puts it plainly in Proverbs 6:16-19: “There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him… and one who sows discord among brothers.” God isn’t vague about this. He hates it when we tear each other down and spread division.
What is backbiting, really? It’s more than just talking behind someone’s back—it’s slander, it’s spreading harmful rumors, and it’s seen in verses like Psalm 15:1-3, Proverbs 25:23, and Romans 1:30. In all these passages, God makes it clear: this isn’t what living righteously is about. He calls us to speak truth and show love, not to harm others with our words.
And it’s not just a Christian thing. The Quran also warns against backbiting, saying it’s as bad as eating the flesh of a dead brother—a powerful image that shows just how wrong and damaging it is. Both scriptures agree: gossip and slander are not small problems; they’re acts of injustice that will be judged.
But why does this matter so much? Because discord—this habit of stirring up trouble and division—keeps us from living the way God wants. It breaks communities, families, and even nations.
Now, some people like to talk only about God’s mercy, love, and forgiveness. And those things are real—beautifully, abundantly real. But the Bible also talks about God’s wrath. His anger isn’t random; it’s aimed at sin and injustice, at the things that hurt His creation and people. The good news? God’s wrath for those who repent—who turn away from their sin and trust in Jesus—has already been taken care of. Romans 5:9 says, “We have now been justified by his blood.” That means Jesus took the punishment on Himself, so we don’t have to.
But here’s the catch: if we think we’re “good enough” on our own, or try to justify our nastiness and division, we’re missing the point. We’re rejecting the solution God Himself provided. That’s a tragedy, because forgiveness is right there for anyone who will accept it.
So, maybe it’s time for all of us—no matter our politics, religion, or background—to think twice before we share that rumor, before we twist someone’s words, before we join in on the endless debates that go nowhere. God calls us instead to be peacemakers, to build each other up, and to accept the mercy He offers through Jesus.
Let’s choose words that heal, actions that unite, and a faith that trusts not in our own goodness, but in what’s already been done for us.
Minister A Francine Green
September 2025
afrancinegreen.com 