Kingdom Unity
How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity! Psalm 133:1
Unity means “to become one” or “unite.” Other definitions include “being undivided” or “in harmony.” What does it mean to become one with our brothers or sisters? It means we have the same focus. We aren’t divided in different directions pulling one another different ways. Instead, we have a kingdom mind-set.
When looking at what unity is, it is beneficial to look at what it is not. Words that are considered the opposite of unity include disunity, dissension, schism, division, discord, conflict, contention, strife, dispute, friction, controversy, disagreement, and difference. We find some of these words in the Bible. For example, Galatians 5:19-21 says, “The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
Someone who practices the opposite of unity will not inherit the kingdom of God—that is strong language! But that’s not all. Take a look at Proverbs 6:12-15: “A scoundrel and villain, who goes about with a corrupt mouth, who winks with his eye, signals with his feet and motions with his fingers, who plots evil with deceit in his heart—he always stirs up dissension. Therefore disaster will overtake him in an instant; he will suddenly be destroyed—without remedy.”
The kind of person referred to in this verse is always stirring something up. Haven’t you met a few of these people? They are not pleasant to be around. They are usually at the center of controversy and not happy unless they are making someone else miserable.
Let’s look at one final verse: “I want men everywhere to lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing” (1 Timothy 2:8). People who are holy and praying are not disputing. When we focus upward, we don’t get sidetracked outward. One of the best ways to end feelings of anger or resentment toward other people is to start praying for them.
Dissension is mentioned several times in the Bible in lists of actions or attitudes that we are not to have. If we act like Christ we won’t bring disunity to His church. As a parent, nothing brings me more joy than to see my children get along. How much more our heavenly Father must be pleased to see His children get along and work together.
Oh, Father, let my actions and activities bring You glory. I want it to be my desire to live a life that is good and pleasing to You, dear Lord, and one that is defined by bringing people together.
