September 15: UNITY

See it:

“Do what you think is best,” the armor bearer replied. “I’m with you completely, whatever you decide.” 1 Samuel 14:7 (NLT)

In the Biblical story, Jonathan understood that while it’s easier to do something alone, it’s more effective when we involve others. There is a small word, with big power, and that word is “and.” It’s one thing to say, “It’s me.” It’s quite another to say, “It’s my church and me.” What we sometimes fail to understand in this polarized society, is that we need each other. Unity multiplies impact.

Obey it:

God created us for community. God is emphatic about giving the vision to the leader first, but not exclusively. A right vision, shared with the right people, at the right time, for the right reason, will accomplish more, in less time. Here are some of the people you’ll need:
1. Mentors. These are wise people you can listen to. They have experience and can help you find ways to better serve your community.
2. Friends. These are caring people you can lean on. They might not have all the answers, but knowing that they are there for you makes a difference. These are people that will go alongside you to reach your community.
3. Students. These are people who can learn from you. Every experience you have had is a lesson that can be shared to encourage, inspire, or warn others. They will learn from you what to do and not to do, to reach the community.

In order to finish the work God has entrusted to us, we need everyone. Traditional and contemporary, men and women, youth and adults. 1st and 2nd generations, accredited colleges and self-supporting ministries, lay members, and paid denominational employees. We are one church. When we attack each other it creates confusion in our youth, discouragement in our members, and delays in our progress. This is God’s work. If we are going to make an impact, we must do it as one.

Share it:
1. Intentionally serve and help someone who does not agree with you on an issue.
2. Offer someone an unexpected tip.
3. Offer a bottle of water to a co-worker.

My prayer today:
Jesus, help me play well with others. Amen.

Season of Service