Introductory Thoughts
Unity only comes from and through the Lord Jesus Christ, but once it comes, the saints of God must endeavour to keep that unity. One of the reasons why people find unity so elusive is because it requires sacrifice from all those who would enjoy its benefits. Only saints who exercise “lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering” will experience unity. No two believers who are using the minds that God gave them will believe every minute detail alike, yet they can enjoy sweet unity and fellowship in the Lord. Obviously, there are times and reasons for believers to divide, but there are also times for believers to forbear “one another in love” and endeavour to keep the unity. This unity works by love and can only be bonded through peace.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): Getting along with other children of God is a serious, determined effort that sometimes seems hard because most people want to have their own way. God tells us to put others first (Romans 12:10) and do right (1 Peter 3:8-11). Would you be willing to let someone else be the leader or play with a toy first if it avoided trouble and discord?
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(For everyone): What are some of the sacrifices we must make in order to enjoy unity between brothers and sisters in Christ? What might hinder us from enjoying the unity that God wants us to have?
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What does the Bible mean when it says that unity is kept in the bond of peace? How does peace bind unity? How does the absence of peace cause division?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask God to help you repent when you hinder proper unity.
- Thank the Lord for the unity you experience in the local body.
Song
Blest Be the Tie that Binds
