When the members of a family argue with each other, the entire family is impacted by the tension. When the argument is made public, even more people become involved in the disagreement.

Scripture teaches us an important truth from Genesis to Revelation. God wants his children to be different from people who are outside the faith. Our message to the world is damaged when we don’t get along with our brothers and sisters in Christ. God has called us to a very high standard: “to walk in a manner worthy of [our] calling.” God said we are to be holy because he is holy. You and I are called to be “imitators” of Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1).

Jesus taught us humility when he, the Son of God, stepped out of heaven and chose to be born in a manger. Jesus taught us to be gentle when he allowed the children to come to him for a blessing. Jesus was an example of patience when his disciples remained doubtful, even after witnessing his miracles. Jesus bore every circumstance he faced, choosing to respond in a way that displayed his love to the people around him. 

Jesus constantly preached his love to the world, calling his disciples to be united in their calling to do the same. He told them he would send them a “helper,” his Holy Spirit, to unite them in their purpose. When God’s children are Spirit-led, there is a bond between them, a “bond of peace.”

To live in unity is to live with a powerful bond of humility, gentleness, patience, and love. Unity is a witness to the world of God’s leadership in our lives. We shouldn’t be surprised when our family unity is Satan’s favorite target.

Paul urged the church to be a family of faith and find unity in the power of the Holy Spirit. 

Good advice and careful instruction provide wisdom. Our families and our church families will grow stronger if we follow Paul’s teaching about our unity in Christ. Jesus set our example and his instruction is our wisdom.