I am not sure about you, but I have been listening to a lot of music over the last couple months. I have noticed how many great bands divide because of ego, money, control, sin, or other things that come from their position. Some of the bands get back together and some never make peace or unite again.
In families and churches this happens more than it should. We see Satan sow seeds of disunity, distrust, pain, frustration, and sin to rip people apart. When this happens, it hurts everybody! Paul probably saw this happen in the church and that’s why he calls for unity in families and church.
In Ephesians 4:2 he tells us to “bear with one another in love;” in 5:2 he reminds us to “walk in love,” and in 6:10-11 he tells us to live in God’s power by putting on His armor. We need Jesus to change us so we can bring the gospel of peace to our brothers and sisters in Christ (6:15). Jesus justifies us so we can have peace with God (Romans 5:1-2) and that allows us to have peace with others.
Of course to keep unity and peace, it is vital for us to understand how God protects us. He gives us spiritual armor (Ephesians 6:10-17). Much has been taught on this, but as a child of God do you have the armor? Will you use it to protect your heart and mind? When we live in God’s power and protection, the spiritual battle for unity can be a victory and the reward is peace.
In light of the spiritual battle we face to stay united and in peace with one another, can you spend a few moments reflecting on what that looks like? Here are a few prompts I would like you to think about and see if it moves your heart …
- Is there a friend or family member that you need to forgive or ask for forgiveness from?
- Is there in your life or at work that you are not at peace with? Is there a way to make peace?
- With the unusual COVID season, how can you help keep the church united about what God is calling us to do?
Take a moment to bring your thoughts to God in prayer, ask for strength for what He calls us to do, and ask for protection as we remain united in the Gospel of peace.
Jeremy Johnson
Pastor of Men’s Ministry
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