Designed For MoreSample

Be Of The Same Mind 

When thinking about unity, a big question that remains for many of us is: “How can I be "of the same mind" and work with someone who has such different perspectives from mine?” 

There is not a quick answer to this question, but take hope that there is a path forward. One of the most simple first steps is to always lead with grace. Even in the moments when you are convinced you are right, lead with grace. Never be satisfied with being right over protecting unity in the “fellowship of the Spirit” (Philippians 2). Needing to be right is the work of self-righteous religion. Instead, when Jesus encountered sinners, he didn’t lead with justice and the law (although within His authority), rather His first step was with grace.

Answering this question begins also with changing our common (and unfortunate) belief that unity means everyone thinks the same way. Unity is not dependent on uniformity, but rather mutual respect, compassion and honor, even if we disagree. This means that it is possible to be in fellowship with other believers and disagree. That’s ok and we should be grown up enough not to panic with diversity. 

Don’t misunderstand this as a reason to go soft on truth or a call for compromise. The whole point is that the biblical call for unity has much more to do with how we treat one another and common mission instead of being right about everything. Be sure of this, if we fight for our perspective and lose unity and love in the process, we have defeated ourselves and become nothing more than static noise. We can prepare the most eloquent declaration of God’s truth, but if not saturated in grace, then we miss God’s ultimate goal for us to be a community marked by love.  

As you pause today, is there someone specific who comes to mind? How might this relationship be different or change if you have the same honoring, humble, and compassionate mind of Christ Jesus? What perspectives or opinions have become idols that hinder unity?

Prayer: 

Lord, I’m asking you to form my heart and mind to be like Yours. Help me be a voice for unity to spark a Murmuration in the Church. May I desire to be unified more than getting my own way. May my actions and change of attitude contribute to a united Church so that we can fly in union! Amen.

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