VERSE OF THE DAY

Monday

Romans 15:5-6 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Unity comes from God's Spirit as we follow Jesus. But unity has a purpose much deeper than our getting along with each other. Jesus prayed that we would be one so the world would know that God sent Him (John 17). We want to be united so our praise can bring glory to God. Unity is far more than a goal, it is a process through which the world learns of Jesus, and we glorify the Father who sent Him and saved us. Can you think of anything more fundamental to our faith than that!

PRAYER ... Great and Almighty God, Eternal Strength for all who call on Your name, I apologize and ask Your forgiveness for everything I've done and every word I've spoken that has hurt someone in Your family and brought a wound to the unity of Your Church. Please bless my efforts as I seek less of my will and more for Your glory and the encouragement of others. Through Jesus, I ask it. Amen.