Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Unity as a Reflection of The Kingdom of God

Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:3-6

Key Verse: “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:3


DEVOTION

Ephesians 4:3-6 calls the believers to have unity. We believers as we grow older, our values, beliefs, and morals alter and change. Unity almost seems impossible at times because it is against our very nature; we all have a different outlook on this life that God has blessed us with. The challenge of achieving unity is significant, but it is a challenge we must face with determination and faith. So how do we grow closer as a community or believers? The answer is to look to the Kingdom of God as our prime example. Paul emphasized the importance of unity within the body of Christ as a reflection of the Kingdom of God. Paul highlights unity as a gift from the Holy Spirit, given through faith in Jesus. This unity reflects the nature of God's Kingdom, characterized by peace, harmony, and a shared identity in Christ. We are told about the bond of peace. No matter our different backgrounds and lifestyles, we are all connected through Christ himself. As we go through life, we are bound to face trouble and differences. Peace is found through the healing of these issues that inevitably arise with the passage of time. However, that peace can be far more difficult to achieve when dealing with a community of believers. How do we resolve issues with other believers, especially when we don't see them nearly enough or even have a relationship with them? The portion also gives us the answer, drawing specifically from verse 5: one Lord, one faith, one baptism. Through this unity, the church becomes a living example of God's Kingdom on earth, demonstrating love, peace, and unity amid diversity. These aspects of our faith allow us as believers to speak in a common language when tough times befall us; the language of love, of peace. This love and peace taught by Jesus himself should give us hope and optimism about our ability to achieve unity. When problems arise, and we act in love and peace, we bring about unity and see that we reflect the Kingdom of God in that unity.

 

PRAYER

Lord, we praise You and humbly serve You, grateful for Your love and blessings. Guide us by opening the right doors and closing the wrong ones. Protect us, carry us through challenges, and keep our path purposeful. Grant us wisdom to hear Your voice and strengthen us with Your grace. Amen.

 

Thought of the day

“Make every effort to do what leads to peace” Romans 14:19

 

Neha Jacob
Epiphany Mar Thoma Church

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