UNITY

Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in UNITY! – Psalm 133:1

At virtually all levels of human interaction – married couple, family members, group of friends, ministry team or church congregation – blessings abound in the Bond of UNITY. First are the blessings of Open Heavens, the like of what followed the Unity in the Upper Room, on the day of Pentecost, as “they were all with one accord in one place” (Acts 2:1b). The Holy Spirit flows and thrives in the atmosphere of Unity. Unity among brethren attracts the release of Corporate Anointing or Unction, proven in power demonstrations and great manifestations. Gladness is another product of “continuing daily with one accord” (Acts 2:46). This is followed by blessing of Divine Increase: “the Lord added to the church daily” (Acts 2:47). Acts 4: 23-33 describes the result of Christians of like minds interceding together for Peter to be released from prison. The unified prayer front led to Peter’s release, fresh spiritual revival, boldness in the Word, great power, and great grace (v.33).

In practical terms, unity among brethren implies manifesting unconditional love towards others. If we responded simply from carnal impulses, we’d probably be nice only when people were kind. At other times, we would likely be angry, hurtful or vengeful. Yet, the Scriptures clearly teach us to love when those around us seem antagonistic and unlovable. In particular, the Lord Jesus demonstrated what He taught, loving us enough to die for us while we were still sinners (Rom.5:8). By His grace, we – His followers – can also love others (1Jh.3:14). Part of the evidence of such love, is that we can live in the Unity of the Spirit with the brethren: “endeavouring to keep the UNITY of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Eph.4:3).

There is blessing in living by the Golden Rule: “Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets” (Mt.7:12). This is what it means to love others; to treat people the same way you want them to treat you. Although it is tough to live up to such standard; it is highly desirable. It is easier to love when others treat us well. Yet, relating with them as you want to be related to, is what builds deep, fulfilling, lasting, and rewarding relationships, without which life lacks meaning – regardless of the power, possessions or popularity we may have. Loving as Jesus commanded is “impossible” on our own; but when we trust Him as Saviour, the Holy Spirit helps to live His life through us!

Although it’s a tough challenge to respond to meanness with love, such godly behaviour causes the release of unique blessings in life. Father-God is pleased with such an attitude, as it brings His children joy, peace, and a sense of fulfilment. It can be especially exciting to anticipate and watch how God moves mysteriously in such relationships. Moreover, it creates and sustains an awareness that the Holy Spirit is working within, enabling divine love to flow through yielded human lives. John 13:35 reveals a significant blessing of Unity among brethren: “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have for one another.” In a world in which unconditional love is uncommon, it cannot go unnoticed! The Psalmist concluded that it is in the place of Unity that “the LORD commanded the blessing – life forevermore” (Psa.133:3). What a Word – the Commanded Blessing!