Introductory Thoughts
God’s desire is that His people would grow into unity. The “perfect man” will experience this unity. The word perfect does not suggest a person without sin; but, rather, an individual who has matured in the Lord and been “furnished unto all good works” (2 Timothy 3:17). A perfect man is not without error, but is mature enough in the Lord to exercise the lowliness, meekness, and forbearance discussed in the previous devotions. The Bible says, “Mark the perfect man . . . for the end of that man is peace” (Psalm 37:37). The will of God is that “we all” would come to this “unity of the faith.” It will only happen as believers grow “unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): Paul told the church at Thessalonica to be at peace among yourselves (1 Thessalonians 5:13b). Its not always easy to get along but takes effort on your part (Psalm 34:14). It becomes easier as you learn the word of God and as you allow the Lord to help you (Psalm 119:165).
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(For everyone): Read 2 Corinthians 13:11. How is being perfect related to being of one mind and living in peace? What does it suggest about your growth when you cannot experience peace and unity?
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Little children fight over foolish things. Young married couples often do the same. How does time and maturity seem to bring peace and unity? How is the same true in the unity of believers?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to help you grow into a perfect man.
- Thank the Lord for His longsuffering in dealing with you.
Song
O to Be Like Thee!
