Unity in the Church

Focus Scripture:
“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:3)

Reflection:
I am convinced that one of the greatest weapons of the enemy is getting us to believe we are all alone. Never battle alone; Community…brothers and sisters in the faith is so very important! The enemy also seeks to attack the church, that is to say the people of God, by causing us to focus on what divides us rather than on what unites us. Now, I don’t want to give the enemy too much credit so let’s be clear – the choice to work with other believers is ours. I know it is easier and more convenient (at least we think) to “go it alone,” but division creates ineffectiveness and even lack of motivation. Imagine what could happen if the people of God actually worked together instead of constantly competing with each other. To be honest, it sickens me and I have to assume that it disgusts and angers God to see such rampant and intentional division and animosity within His church.

Re-read the focus scripture. God does NOT tell us to create unity; He tells us to preserve it (to keep it).

Application:
What are you (what am I) doing to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace? Am I even concerned with unity or do I actually advocate (whether knowingly or unknowingly) division? What can you (what can I) do this week to preserve the unity of the church?

Prayer:
Father God, forgive us for being so eager to embrace our differences as believers. Holy Spirit, bring revelation and conviction to help us understand that what unites us is truly stronger than what divides us! Spirit, show me how I can preserve the unity of the church and then give me the desire and motivation and focus to actually do something about this “disease” infecting Christ-followers. Lord God, we trust in You; lead us we pray, in Jesus’s name. Amen.

Using Your Gifts to Serve

Focus Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:4-5

“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them.There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord.”

God gives each of us a unique assortment of talents and opportunities. And our heavenly Father instructs us to be faithful stewards of the gifts that he bestows upon us. But we live in a world that encourages us to do otherwise. Ours is a society that is filled to the brim with countless opportunities to squander our time, our resources, and our talents.

So we must be watchful for distractions and temptations that might lead us astray. God has blessed you with unique opportunities to serve him, and he has given you every tool that you need to do so.

Today, and everyday, accept this challenge: value the talent that God has given you, nourish it, make it grow, and share it with the world. After all, the best way to say “Thank You” for God’s gifts is to use them!

*This post is taken from my devotion book, Download: Devotions to Start Your Day