Devotion:
For an audio version of this devotion, click here.
Read Romans 15:4-7, 12-13.
One of the greatest obstacles in spreading the good news of Jesus Christ today is divisiveness in the church. This problem is not new, but that doesn’t make it any less serious. Paul indicates that the division between Jew and Gentile followers of Jesus was problematic in the early church just as we have many areas of dispute today.
Though we don’t need to agree about everything, the Bible emphasizes that followers of Jesus Christ should demonstrate unity. We can achieve this by following the example of Jesus as we serve and form relationships with one another. We should pray that God will give us the same attitude of mind toward each other that Jesus Christ had. We should also praise God and bring glory to God. Paul instructs his readers to praise, rejoice, and sing hymns to express their unity and to glorify God for his mercies. Shouldn’t we who have received God’s love and salvation lift our voices to praise him in unity?
I have had the pleasure to worship God with sisters and brothers in many different countries. Often, I cannot understand the words being sung, but I know we are one in the Spirit. It thrills my heart to sing to God with other believers because I know the power of the Holy Spirit is there with us as we worship our Savior, Jesus, together.
Personal Worship Option:
God, make us one. Unite us so that the world may know they have hope in you. Amen.
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