It seems I’m watching a divide widen before my eyes. I see a nation of people turning on each other. People are arguing about racial issues, sexuality, immigration, women’s rights, the environment, political affiliations and more. I watch the division in our country become more visceral, and I wonder as a Christian: How should I respond? What should I say?

It’s difficult. Sincere Christians don’t want to offend people but desire to love others as Jesus loves. We want to be known for our commitment to follow Christ, not for being closed-minded, out of touch or hateful. With tensions high, we don’t want to become the center of controversy, drama or arguments. Often, fear keeps us from speaking up at all.

But I want to challenge us with this: We have an obligation to engage in what is happening in culture.

Jesus modeled it beautifully and encourages us to do the same. How we treat and love our neighbor is at the very core of what it means to be an authentic follower of Jesus. If the greatest commandments are to love God and love our neighbors as ourselves, then interacting with others who think and believe differently than we do is at the heart of the gospel.

Jesus spoke directly to the tensions that were evident in His day. In the Parable of the Good Samaritan, for instance, He challenged the assumptions and biases of the Jewish people toward their neighbors, the Samaritans (Luke 10:25-37).

Following the example of Christ is less about sharing your political views with others and more about sharing the gospel. That’s why Christians should choose to win hearts, not arguments. So, love your neighbor. In complicated times such as these, it’s as simple that.

Put yourself in someone else’s shoes. Many of us don’t know what it’s like to experience racial bigotry, gender inequality or poverty. Proverbs 4:7 tells us to seek wisdom. Ask questions, and try to understand where the other person is coming from. This will not only build a bridge, but it will also help calm the waters as you empathize.

Before you say it, pray it. At times, we’re all guilty of just speaking what we’re feeling. Before you engage with someone or in something, spend some time in prayer. Ask God to help you understand His heart for the situation and for that person. It’s easier to see where others are coming from when you view them from God’s perspective.

Grace is more powerful than combativeness or defensiveness.

Graciously share the good news. Gospel means “good news.” People have had enough bad news and fake news. You have the opportunity to share the truths of Scripture — the ultimate message of hope and comfort.

The gospel is also a message of grace. Just as we’ve experienced God’s grace, we must extend grace to others. Colossians 4:6 says: “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”

At the end of the day, grace is more powerful than combativeness or defensiveness. Grace in action is this: Having a forgiving attitude and a compassionate position while walking in wisdom with those whose attitudes and beliefs differ from yours.

Have conversations, not confrontations. We’ve seen enough confrontation to last us a lifetime. Let’s start having conversations. That means engaging in a two-sided dialogue. Listening shows grace and respect. We must listen to others if we want them to listen to us.

Don’t come into the argument simply telling others what to think or what you think; ask what they think. How you say it is just as important as what you say. Stop trying so hard to be convincing, and start inviting discussion. Don’t see differences as barriers but opportunities. Choose to rally around themes that can do the most good: love, honor, peace, humility, kindness, forgiveness and hope.

If someone asks whether I’m against a particular politician, I say, “Instead of who I’m against or what I’m against, let me tell you what I’m 100 percent for: human dignity, valuing people of all races, finding forgiveness to heal and bringing people together in peace. I can see you’re hurting over what’s happening. How can I help?”

Practice peacemaking. That means being intentional to bring peace to people, places and discussions. This is not a fabricated peace, but a faith-related peace. It is a supernatural peace that has nothing to do with human circumstances. No one can produce it, but everyone can find it. This peace is a Person — Jesus, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).

The God of peace crushes Satan and overcomes evil (Romans 16:20). The closer you are to Jesus, the closer you are to peace. Jesus isn’t stressed out or worried, and you don’t have to live that way either.

Be a good neighbor. True joy is not found in pursuing our own desires but in fulfilling the desires of others. That means keeping our doors open and our lives open as good neighbors to create a better community. Acceptance is more palatable to culture than resistance, so we choose to accept people where they are and influence people to go where they could be in Jesus.

Hebrews 10:24 says to “consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.”

In light of eternity, shouldn’t your daily interactions be less about proving you’re right or wrong and more about seeing others draw closer to the unconditional love of Jesus?