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.

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