Unity: How to Wisely Apply It in Politics, Religion & Life in General

In a culture driven by division, opinions, and outrage, unity almost feels impossible. But in Episode 156 of The Impossible Life Podcast, Garrett Unclebach and Nick Surface present a different vision—one where unity isn’t weakness, and where truth and relationship don’t have to compete.

This episode breaks down how men can walk in wisdom, strength, and unity across some of the most volatile areas of life—politics, religion, and relational tension—without compromising conviction.

The Problem: We’ve Equated Agreement with Unity

One of the most dangerous lies in our culture is that you can’t be unified unless you agree. Garrett and Nick push back hard on that idea.

“Agreement is not the same as unity. You don’t need sameness—you need shared values and vision.”
—Garrett Unclebach

That truth applies across every sphere of life:

• In marriage: You won’t always agree—but you can still honor and move forward together.

• In friendships or family: You can choose connection even when convictions clash.

• In politics or church: You can stand for truth without dehumanizing people who see it differently.

What Unity Is—and What It Isn’t

Unity isn’t compromise. It’s not passive. It’s not rolling over or becoming silent. Unity is a mindset and a discipline built on truth, love, and maturity.

“Unity is the bond of peace—it’s a fruit of spiritual maturity.”
—Nick Surface

Here’s what unity is:

• Choosing to protect relationship, not escalate offense

• Leading with curiosity, not assumptions

• Building bridges where possible, and boundaries where necessary

And here’s what it’s not:

• People-pleasing

• Silence about truth

• Avoiding conflict

The Biblical Foundation for Unity

Garrett and Nick go deep into Scripture, grounding the conversation in God’s design for unity. In John 17, Jesus prays for His followers to be one—as He and the Father are one.

Unity matters to God because:
✅ It reflects His nature
✅ It empowers His people
✅ It strengthens our witness

“If you’re divisive, you’re working against what Jesus prayed for.”
—Garrett Unclebach

The enemy thrives in division. God works through unity.

Why Unity Takes More Strength Than Division

It’s easy to cancel someone. It takes courage to engage. It’s easy to draw a line and walk away. It takes wisdom to stay and lead through tension.

“The people who live in unity are the strongest ones in the room.”
—Nick Surface

Unity isn’t weak. It’s not soft. It’s what allows you to hold your convictions and your relationships in the same hand.

In a world addicted to outrage, unity is revolutionary.

Applying Unity in Real Life

✅ In Politics

You’re not defined by a party or platform. You’re defined by the Kingdom. Garrett and Nick encourage men to be bold in their values, but also wise in their communication.

• Speak with clarity, not contempt

• Listen to understand, not to debate

• Stay rooted in biblical truth, not tribal rhetoric

✅ In Religion

Not every disagreement is a reason to divide. Ask: is this a salvation issue, or a style/preference issue?

• Stand for the essentials

• Show grace in the non-essentials

• Stay unified in mission, even if methods differ

✅ In Marriage and Relationships

Unity doesn’t mean avoiding tough conversations—it means having them with honor and commitment.

• Ask better questions

• Lead with empathy, not ego

• Stay focused on the shared future, not the present frustration

“You can disagree without dishonor. Unity is built on mutual respect and a shared mission.”
—Garrett Unclebach

Practical Action Plan: Build a Life of Unity Without Compromise

✅ Check Your Heart First
Am I leading with love or trying to win an argument?

✅ Speak the Truth in Love
Don’t water it down—but don’t weaponize it either.

✅ Stay Curious
Ask questions. Assume the best. Seek to understand before being understood.

✅ Choose Connection Over Being Right
When in doubt—pursue relationship. Truth flows better in trusted spaces.

✅ Pray for Unity
Ask God to give you wisdom, humility, and strength to be a unifier.

Final Thought: Unity Is Power

Unity is not weakness. It’s not compromise. It’s the mark of men who are strong enough to stay, wise enough to listen, and courageous enough to lead—even when it’s uncomfortable.

“The people who change the world are the ones who know how to stay unified while standing firm.”
—Nick Surface

In a divided world, let your life be a picture of something better. Not just louder opinions—but deeper wisdom. Not just stronger stances—but stronger relationships.

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