How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!
The topic of God’s people living together in unity was part of Christ’s High Priestly prayer, just before His walk to Calvary. In his advancing years the apostle John pleaded, “Little children love one another.” Paul continues this theme of unity: “Be of the same mind toward one with another…maintaining the same love, united in spirit and intent on one purpose,” and one Person. And in his short outburst of praise, we discover David as king rejoicing and singing: “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony, for it refreshes the soul and is a sweet fragrance that ascends to the Lord and glorifies His holy name.” This was one of the songs of ascent that Israel would sing to the Lord with joy in their hearts, as they advanced on their pilgrimage to Jerusalem. This was a hymn of praise that would echo throughout the land of Israel, as God’s people travelled towards their sacred destination. We too are on our own march towards our heavenly home, but every step we make toward that day when the Lord takes us to be with Himself, should be a day when we live together with our brothers and sisters in Christ…in gracious harmony and godly unity. Unity does not imply uniformity. But in the Body of Christ there should be a real oneness of spirit on the essential fundamentals of our faith. While lesser, subordinate issues should not cause wanton discord or division. Little disagreements or alternative views on minor issues should be approached with wisdom and grace. In all our dealings there should be a godly spirit of unity and love. There should be a patient, kind, gracious love that comes only from the Spirit of Christ Who is our life. For in Him our soul is refreshed and we are equipped to enlighten others, which glorifies our Father in heaven.
Spiritual Steve 