“So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind” Philippians 2:1-2 (ESV)
APOSTLE Paul urges us to embrace the power of unity. He reminds us that our encouragement, comfort, and participation in the Spirit are all rooted in Christ’s love. When we walk in unity, we reflect Christ’s heart to the world.
In Romans 15:5-6, Paul says: ‘Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus, that you may with one mind and one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.’
You cannot be united in Christ in a prayer cell or a church without being like-minded with each other. God expects all those in the church to have a longing for Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. Our callings may be different, our talents may vary but our search begins and ends in Christ.
Ephesians 4:2-3 Paul calls us to be united “with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”
2 Corinthians 5:17 says we are new beings in Christ. Paul outlines the character of the new man in Colossians 3:12-14. “Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection.”
Imagine a symphony: each instrument, though unique, harmonizes to create a masterpiece. Similarly, God has placed diverse gifts and callings within His body. When we have the same love and are of one mind, we become a beautiful expression of His grace.
Paul’s plea for unity should resonate in our hearts today. In a world filled with division, our unity testifies to the transforming power of Christ. Let us seek to understand, love, and support one another, bearing with patience and showing kindness.
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, we come before you with gratitude for the unity we find in Christ. Help us to walk in love, humility, and understanding, embracing the diversity within your body. May our unity be a beacon of hope to a divided world. In Jesus’ Name, we pray. Amen.
