Unity versus Disunity
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all of these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Colossians 3:12-14
When someone sits in your place at church, unity says, “Who cares? I am glad you are here.”
Disunity says, “This is my seat. Didn’t you see my stuff here?”
Unity says, “I will support and pray for the leadership of my church, knowing it is not an easy task.”
Disunity says, “Why hasn’t that staff person talked to me this week? She’s not being friendly.”
Unity says, “I want to see all people come to worship with us.”
Disunity says, “I want people that look like me to come.”
Unity says, “I will give others the benefit of the doubt.”
Disunity says, “There is no excuse for you to act like that. I don’t give second chances.”
Unity says, “I love to worship no matter the style.”
Disunity says, “I can worship with only my kind of music.”
Unity says, “I am glad that others are coming to know Jesus even if I have to work in the nursery longer.”
Disunity says, “You better get me out on time or I will never work in the nursery again.”
Unity says, “Confront a person if you see him or her doing something improper.”
Disunity says, “Talk behind people’s backs and don’t go directly to them.”
Unity says, “Pray for people when you see them going through tough times.”
Disunity says, “Gossip about people when you hear they have a troubled marriage.”
Unity says, “Forgive.”
Disunity says, “Don’t forgive.”
Unity says, “Don’t judge.”
Disunity says, “Criticize everything.”
Unity says, “We are all on the same team.”
Disunity says, “I am doing my own thing no matter what the team is doing.”
Unity says, “I will respect others.”
Disunity says, “I respect no one but myself.”
Oh, Father, let us clothe ourselves with characteristics that bring glory to Your name. Let me love others in practical ways and let me be quick to forgive, knowing that I have been forgiven. Let my life be one that models unity in my home, my church, and my community. In Jesus’ name, amen.
