Lincoln’s “Malice Toward None” in Healing Divisions

The phrase “with malice toward none and charity for all,” from President Abraham Lincoln’s second inaugural address, encapsulates a profound principle for living that calls for kindness, humility, and active love even amid deep divisions and wounds. This principle serves as a guiding framework for how individuals and communities should relate to one another.

“Malice toward none” means deliberately avoiding harmful, mean-spirited attitudes, words, and actions that cause pain and deepen divisions. Words possess immense power; they can shape attitudes and influence behavior, often leaving lasting harm even when unintentional. This aligns with the biblical teaching in 1 John 3:18, which exhorts believers to love not merely in words but in deed and truth ([04:00]). Recognizing the impact of words encourages a commitment to speak and act in ways that heal rather than hurt.

“Charity for all” calls for active love—charity as a verb that requires tangible expressions of care and support. It involves setting aside bitterness and focusing outward by helping those in need, welcoming all people, supporting mission work, and responding to crises. Communities and churches that embody this outward focus demonstrate love in action by serving others, breaking down barriers, and fostering unity ([11:36]).

Contemporary societal issues such as racism, ageism, and elitism are often fueled by harmful words and stereotypes. Language that demeans or dismisses others, even subtly, can harden hearts and reduce empathy. For example, derogatory terms like “moron” contribute to negative attitudes that undermine understanding and respect ([08:36]). The increase in threats and harmful rhetoric, especially against marginalized groups, illustrates how words can escalate into physical and emotional harm. The call is to respond with gentle, kind words that lead to loving actions rather than division or harm ([10:18]).

Lincoln’s words model a response to societal wounds that chooses love over malice and charity over bitterness. Active love involves reaching out, welcoming all, and working toward justice, particularly in confronting challenges like racism and exclusion. Concrete expressions of this love include creating inclusive spaces and committing resources to mission efforts, embodying the call to love without malice and serve with charity for all ([13:03]).

Love in action is essential for transforming society. It is not passive but requires intentional effort—using words carefully, acting charitably, and standing firmly against divisiveness. This approach combines attitude and deed, avoiding malice and practicing charity to build a more just and compassionate community in the present ([17:31]).

Ultimately, embracing the principle of “with malice toward none and charity for all” encourages shedding malice, embracing charity, and actively working toward healing and unity. This path is guided by the example of Jesus and the Holy Spirit, calling all to live out love in both word and deed.

This article was written by an AI tool for churches, based on a sermon from Suamico United Methodist Church, one of 840 churches in Suamico, WI