Support this ministry by using the companies and products you see on this blog


Monday, November 4, 2024

A Humble Heart: The Pathway to True Greatness


This is the manuscript for the sermon "A Humble Heart: The Pathway to True Greatness" at Christ Church Los Angeles, Sunday November 3, 2024."

This is the sermon of a series leading up to election day which is Tuesday November 5th,  addressing five themes that will help us in the church navigate all the anxiety and negativity surrounding this election.

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. (Philippians 2:3-4 NIV)
In a world that often exalts self-importance and individual achievement, the concept of humility can seem outdated or even counterintuitive. Yet, the Bible, presents humility as the cornerstone of a truly fulfilling and God-honoring life.
Humility is not a weakness but a strength that empowers us to live a life that honors God and blesses others. By following the example of Christ, we can embrace humility as a transformative force in our lives.
While the rewards of humility may not always be immediate or obvious, they are nonetheless profound. A humble heart experiences peace, joy, and contentment. It attracts others and fosters strong relationships. And most importantly, it brings us closer to God.
As we strive to live a more humble life, let us remember the words of Jesus: "Whoever humbles himself will be exalted".


Philippians 2:1-11 NIV [1] Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, [2] then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. [3] Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, [4] not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. [5]   In your relationships with one another, have the same  mindset as Christ Jesus: [6] Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; [7] rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. [8] And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross! [9] Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, [10] that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, [11] and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus loveChrist is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 


Introduction


This the fourth sermon of a series leading up to election day which is Tuesday November 5th,  addressing five themes that will help us in the church navigate all the anxiety and negativity surrounding this election.The themes are  

The Kingdom of God

Unity

Humility

Kindness

 Love


We first sermon was about love  which helps us obey what it says in


Romans 12:17-18 NIV [17] Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. [18] If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 


Then we said that we have a duel citizenship.   We are citizens of the United States and we should be good citizens, which means that we should vote our and obey the law and the authorities.


We are also citizens of the kingdom of heaven where our ultimate loyalty lies and we should obey the laws and the authority of that kingdom.


Philippians 3:20-21 NIV [20] But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, [21] who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

Remember that our true home is not here on earth, but in the Kingdom of Heaven, where peace and joy reign eternal.

Last week we talked about unity and we said unity is not just a desirable goal; it is a command from our Lord and Savior. It is essential for the health and growth of the church and our witness.  God wants His people, His family, to live in harmony with one another, not out of obligation but out of love and obedience. 

John 13:34-35 NIV [34]  “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. [35] By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” 

Today I want to talk about humility.

I am convinced most of the differences between people would disappear if we all devoted our efforts to “walking humbly” with God and each other.


Just imagine what our communities would look like if we made it our sole ambition to obey what it says in our text for today;


Philippians 2:3-4 NIV [3] Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, [4] not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

"In a world obsessed with me, myself, and I, humility can feel old-fashioned or just plain weird.", but the Bible, particularly in the passages we've read today, presents humility as the cornerstone of a truly fulfilling and God-honoring life.

The Paradox of Humility

At first glance, humility may seem like a deficiency.   Humility could be mistaken for a shortcoming; humility might seem weak; like it makes us smaller; like it makes us less important. However, as we look deeper into the teachings of Jesus and the Scriptures, we discover a profound paradox. Humility, far from being a limitation, is the key to unlocking our true potential and experiencing the fullness of God's grace.

The Example of Christ

The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, offers us the ultimate example of humility: Jesus Christ. 

Philippians 2:6-8 [6] Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; [7] rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. [8] And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!

  • Jesus relinquished His divine rights and prerogatives, humbling Himself to become one of us, a human being.

  • He embraced a life of service, even washing the feet of His disciples on the night before His crucifixion and demonstrating the true nature of leadership

John 13:2-5,  NIV [2] The evening meal was in progress, and the devil had already prompted Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. [3] Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; [4] so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. [5] After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.

In Jesus's time, foot washing was a task typically performed by servants. It was considered a humble and often menial job.

Jesus endured the ultimate humiliation, suffering and dying on a cross, the most shameful form of execution.

Galatians 3:13 AMP [13] Christ purchased our freedom and redeemed us from the curse of the Law and its condemnation by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who hangs [crucified] on a tree (cross)”— 

Hebrews 12:2 NIV [2] fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 

The Benefits of Humility

While humility can indeed lead to suffering and shame, especially in a world that often values pride and self-promotion, the potential benefits far outweigh the challenges. Christ's example perfectly illustrates this point. 


Philippians 2:8-11 8] And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross! [9] Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, [10] that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, [11] and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 

His humility, though leading to significant suffering and sacrifice, ultimately brought about redemption and salvation for many.

  • Humility brings Divine Favor: 

By cultivating humility, we can deepen our relationship with God and experience the fullness of His love and grace. Scripture confirms that there is a connection between humility and divine favor. A humble heart is often seen as a vessel open to receiving blessings and guidance. 

James 4:6 NIV [6] But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”

Proverbs 3:34 NKJV Surely He scorns the scornful, But gives grace to the humble.

  • Humility Brings Spiritual Growth: Humility allows us to receive correction, learn from our mistakes, and grow in wisdom. 

Proverbs 29:23 AMP [23] A man’s pride and sense of self-importance will bring him down, But he who has a humble spirit will obtain honor.

When we are humble, we are open to the guidance of others. We can accept criticism without defensiveness and learn from our mistakes without shame. This allows us to grow in knowledge and understanding. 

  • Humility Brings Strong Relationships: A humble heart fosters genuine connection with others, free from pride and judgment.

Philippians 2:3-4 NIV [3] Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, [4] not looking to your own 

When we approach others with humility, we create a safe and welcoming environment where people feel seen, heard, and valued. This fosters deep and lasting relationships built on trust and mutual respect.

Humility allows us to listen attentively to others, to value their perspectives, and to respond with compassion. It enables us to put aside our own ego and focus on building meaningful connections. 

  • Humility Brings Inner Peace: Humility frees us from the anxiety and stress that often accompany a prideful heart.  

1 Peter 5:6-7 NIV [6] Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. [7] Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Jesus Himself said

Matthew 11:28-30 NIV [28]  “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. [29] Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and q humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. [30] For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

When we let go of pride and embrace humility, we release ourselves from the unnecessary burdens of anxiety and stress. When we are not constantly striving to prove our worth, we experience a sense of peace and contentment.    By following Jesus' example of humility, we can find true rest and peace in our lives.

  • And Finally Humility Brings with it Eternal Reward: 

Matthew 23:12 NIV says  For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. 

By practicing humility, we demonstrate our trust in God's sovereignty and His perfect timing. We acknowledge our limitations and dependence on Him, leading to a deeper and more meaningful relationship with Him.  

By embracing a humble heart, we align ourselves with God's divine plan, receive His grace, and experience the fullness of His blessings.

We open ourselves to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, which can lead us to a deeper understanding of God's love and purpose for our lives.

Practical Steps to Cultivating Humility

  1. We can Acknowledge Our Dependence on God: We can Recognize that everything we have and are comes from God.

Here are some scriptures that support this;

James 1:16-18 NIV [16] Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. [17] Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. [18] He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created. 

Romans 11:36 NIV [36] For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.

By acknowledging God as the source of all blessings, we cultivate humility and gratitude.  God is the ultimate source of life, blessings, and abilities. We are entirely dependent on Him for our existence and every good thing we possess.

  1. We can Practice Gratitude: Regularly express thankfulness for God's blessings, no matter how small.  This could include your health, your family, your job, or even something as simple as a beautiful sunset

1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

  1. We can Serve Others: We can look for opportunities to serve others, putting their needs before our own.  

Jesus, our ultimate example, came to serve, not to be served.  

Mark 10:45 NIV [45] For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” 

By seeking opportunities to serve others, we not only bless their lives but also enrich our own spiritual journey.

Here is something else Jesus said to His disciples;

Matthew 25:31-40 NIV [31]  “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. [32] All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. [33] He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. [34]  “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. [35] For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, [36] I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ [37]  “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? [38] When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? [39] When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ [40]  “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’

Our actions towards others, especially the marginalized and needy, reflect our relationship with God. Jesus emphasizes that helping the hungry, thirsty, strangers, naked, sick, and imprisoned is equivalent to serving Him directly. 

4. We can Confess our Pride: Be honest with God about our pride and seek His forgiveness.  

Psalms 51:10 NIV [10] Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

By being honest with God about our pride, we open ourselves to His transformative power. He can help us to cultivate a humble heart and live a life that reflects His love and grace.

Galatians 5:22-26 NIV [22] But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [23] gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. [24] Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. [25] Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. [26] Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

  1. And we can Learn from Others: When we acknowledge that others have valuable insights and experiences to share, we open ourselves to growth and understanding.  

Proverbs 12:15 NIV The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.

Proverbs 18:15 NIV The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.

Proverbs 11:14 NIV For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.

By embracing a teachable spirit, we can break down barriers, build stronger relationships, and ultimately become better versions of ourselves.

Conclusion

Humility is not a weakness but a strength that empowers us to live a life that honors God and blesses others. By following the example of Christ, we can embrace humility as a transformative force in our lives. May we, like it said in the scripture this morning at 

Philippans 2:5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: 

While the rewards of humility may not always be immediate or obvious, they are nonetheless profound. A humble heart experiences peace, joy, and contentment. It attracts others and fosters strong relationships. And most importantly, it brings us closer to God.

As we strive to live a more humble life, let us remember the words of Jesus

Matthew 23:11-12 NIV The greatest among you will be your servant. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. 

May we embrace the beauty of humility and experience the transformative power of God's grace.

Although many of us have already voted, the final day that we can vote is Tuesday November 5th and as I've said this election season is an opportunity for the church and Christians.  

As we look at our country and the path we’re on, it’s clear that we need to turn back to God. We need to pray for the United States of America and specifically for a spiritual revival. 

Jesus said we are to be examples to the world.

Matthew 5:14-16 NIV [14]  “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. [15] Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. [16] In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. 

People who haven’t yet come to Christ look to believers for their cues. If they see Christians at odds with one another, treating one another worse than unbelievers do, they’ll question Jesus’ impact on our lives.

Heavenly Father, we thank you for this time of reflection and the opportunity to hear your Word. We pray that the message of humility, as exemplified by Christ, will sink deep into our hearts.

Help us, Lord, to lay aside our pride and arrogance. Grant us the grace to see ourselves as you see us, as humble and needy creatures. May we embrace the path of humility, recognizing our dependence on you and our need for your grace.

Empower us to serve others with a spirit of love and compassion. May we be willing to put the needs of others before our own, following the example of Christ who emptied himself for our sake.

We pray for the strength to resist the temptations of pride and self-exaltation. Help us to live lives that are marked by humility, gratitude, and love.

As we walk through times of transition, we remember that You are on the throne. You said that you would never leave or forsake us.  You are the same God that has been with us in the past and we know that you will not abandon us now.  In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.



Monday, October 28, 2024

A Tapestry of Unity

 


This is the manuscript for the sermon "A Tapestry of Unity" at Christ Church Los Angeles, Sunday October 27, 2024."

This is the sermon of a series leading up to election day which is Tuesday November 5th,  addressing five themes that will help us in the church navigate all the anxiety and negativity surrounding this election.

How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down on the collar of his robe. It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the Lord bestows his blessing, even life forevermore. (Psalms 133:1-3)
Unity is a complex and beautiful pattern woven together in the body of Christ. It's not about uniformity or sameness, but about diverse parts interconnected to form one harmonious whole. God celebrates the rich diversity within His church, including differences in gender, ethnicity, spiritual gifts, and geography.
Just as a tapestry is created from many different threads, the body of Christ is made up of individuals with unique talents and perspectives. When these individuals work together in unity, they create a masterpiece that is far more beautiful and meaningful than any single thread could be on its own.

Scripture

John 17:13-26 NIV [13]  “I am coming to you now, but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of my joy within them. [14] I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. [15] My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. [16] They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. [17] Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. [18] As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. [19] For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified.  [20]  “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, [21] that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. [22] I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— [23] I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. [24]  “Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world. [25]  “Righteous Father, though the world does not know you, I know you, and they know that you have sent me. [26] I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them.”

Introduction

This the third sermon of a series leading up to election day which is Tuesday November 5th,  addressing five themes that will help us in the church navigate all the anxiety and negativity surrounding this election. If you remember the themes are  

The Kingdom of God

Unity

Humility

Kindness

 Love

In the first sermon we talked about love which helps us obey what it says in


Romans 12:17-18 NIV [17] Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. [18] If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 


And the definition of that love is in


1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NIV says [4] Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. [5] It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. [6] Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. [7] It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.


Last week we said that we have a duel citizenship.  We are citizens of the United States and we should be good citizens, which means that we should vote our consciences and obey the law and the authorities.


Romans 13:1 NIV [1] Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 


We are also citizens of the kingdom of heaven were our ultimate loyalty lies and we should obey the laws and the authority of that kingdom.


Paul in writing to the church, to Christians in Philippi said;

Philippians 3:20-21 NIV [20] But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, [21] who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

Remember that our true home is not here on earth, but in the Kingdom of Heaven, where peace and joy reign eternal.

The title of this sermon today is “A Tapestry of Unity”.  

I want to paint a picture of a complex and beautiful pattern woven together in the context of the body of Christ, the church, the citizens of the kingdom of Heaven, who work together despite their differences to create something beautiful and meaningful.  

What is “unity” exactly? It is certainly not uniformity

In the context of the church, the distinction between unity and uniformity is crucial.

Unity emphasizes the shared bond among believers, rooted in their common faith in Jesus Christ. It's a sense of belonging and connection, despite differences in background, culture, or personal experiences. Unity is about working together towards a common goal, even when there are disagreements or diverse perspectives.  

Uniformity, on the other hand, suggests a forced sameness, It can stifle diversity, creativity, and individual expression. In the church, uniformity can lead to a superficial sense of unity, where people may outwardly appear to be alike but inwardly harbor resentment or disunity.   

The Bible emphasizes the importance of unity among believers. For example, John 17:21 says, "that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I am in you, that they may also be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me." 

This unity I am talking about is not about uniformity but about a deep spiritual connection.   In essence, the church should strive for unity in diversity. This means embracing the richness and diversity of God's people while maintaining a shared commitment to the core tenets of the Christian faith. God created and is pleased in numerous forms of diversity in the body of Christ, including maleness and femaleness, race, ethnicity, spiritual gifts, nationality, and more

We can define unity in the church “many diverse parts interconnected to form one body.

1 Corinthians 12:12-27 NIV [12] Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. [13] For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. [14] Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many. [15] Now if the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. [16] And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. [17] If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? [18] But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. [19] If they were all one part, where would the body be? [20] As it is, there are many parts, but one body. [21] The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” [22] On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, [23] and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, [24] while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, [25] so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. [26] If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. [27] Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. 

Unity is nourished and maintained through connection to Jesus.

John 15:1-5 NIV [1]  “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. [2] He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. [3] You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. [4] Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. [5]  “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. 

As Jesus explains, he is the vine, and we are the branches. Our life and fruitfulness depend on our connection to him. But this connection is not merely individualistic; it is also communal. Just as branches are interconnected on a vine, we are interconnected as members of the body of Christ.

This unity is what Jesus prayed for so passionately for in His priestly prayer that is recorded in John 17. James read part of tha prayer earlier.  I want to direct your attention to

John 17:20-21 NIV [20]  “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, [21] that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 

Jesus’ prayer reveals several key aspects of the unity that Christ desires:

  • Unity with God: The first level of unity is with God himself. We are called to be one with God, just as Jesus is one with the Father. This unity is achieved through faith in Christ.

  • Unity with One Another: The second level of unity is with one another. Christ prays that all believers would be one, just as he and the Father are one. This unity is essential for the witness of the church to the world.

  • Unity as a Witness: The third aspect of unity is its role as a witness to the world. When the world sees us united, they will believe that God has sent Jesus.

So today, I want us to explore the profound beauty and power of unity. 

Our text for today is Psalm 133, a short but impactful passage, that paints a vivid picture of what it means to dwell together in unity.

Text:

Psalms 133:1-3 NIV[1] How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! [2] It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down on the collar of his robe. [3] It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the Lord bestows his blessing, even life forevermore.

Unity as a Precious Oil

David the psalmist compares unity to precious oil poured on a priest's head. This imagery evokes the idea of consecration, sanctification, and divine favor. When we are united, we become vessels of God's grace, and we have been anointed for a sacred purpose. Unity is not merely a social goal; it is a spiritual necessity.

Unity as Dew from Hermon

The dew of Hermon, a mountain range in the Middle East, is known for its abundant rainfall. This imagery symbolizes the life-giving qualities of unity. Just as dew refreshes and sustains vegetation, unity nourishes our souls and communities. When we are united, we create a fertile environment where love, compassion, and hope can flourish.

Unity as a Divine Command

Unity is not merely a desirable aspiration; it is a divine mandate, a commandment. The last sentence of the Psalm in the NIV is "For there the LORD commanded the blessing, life forevermore." 

God wants His people, His family, to live in harmony with one another, not out of obligation but out of love and obedience. 

John 13:34-35 NIV [34]  “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. [35] By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

Unity has obvious benefits;

When we are united, we are stronger. We can overcome challenges and obstacles that would be insurmountable if we were divided.

Unity is a powerful witness to the world. When the world sees us loving one another, they see the love of Christ.

Unity enables us to bear more fruit. When we work together, we can accomplish more for the kingdom of God.

Obstacles to Unity

Despite the benefits of unity, we often face obstacles to that unity. These obstacles can include:

Pride which can lead to division, as people compete for recognition or power.

Prejudice which can create barriers between people based on race, ethnicity, political ideologies, or other differences.

Misunderstandings which can lead to conflict and division.

But we can Overcome these Obstacles with

Humility: We must humble ourselves and recognize that we are all equal in the sight of God.

Romans 2:9-11 NIV 9] There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile; [10] but glory, honor and peace for everyone who does good: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. [11] For God does not show favoritism.

Galatians 3:26-29 NIV [26] So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, [27] for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. [28] There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. [29] If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.

We can overcome these obstacles with Love: We must love one another unconditionally, even when it is difficult.

Matthew 5:43-48 NIV [43]  “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ [44] But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, [45] that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. [46] If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? [47] And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? [48] Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

1 John 4:7-12 NIV [7] Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. [8] Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. [9] This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. [10] This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. [11] Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. [12] No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.

We can overcome these obstacles to Unity With Forgiveness: We must be willing to forgive those who have wronged us.

Colossians 3:12-14 NIV [12] Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. [13] Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. [14] And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, unity is not merely a desirable goal; it is a command from our Lord and Savior. It is essential for the health and growth of the church and our witness.

I've said this before but it's worth saying again; this election season is an opportunity for the church and Christians.

Matthew 5:14-16 NIV [14]  “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. [15] Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. [16] In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. 

People who haven’t yet come to Christ look to believers for their cues. If they see Christians at odds with one another, treating one another worse than unbelievers do, they’ll question Jesus’ impact on our lives.

As we strive to live out the principles of unity, we become more like Christ, who is the embodiment of love and harmony. May we be a beacon of unity in a world that often feels divided. May our lives reflect the beauty and power of dwelling together in peace.


Let’s Pray:

Almighty Father, we are so thankful that we live in a country that allows us the ability to choose our political leaders. As we head into another presidential election, and we sense the tension, we ask that You put a hedge of protection around each candidate, as well as their families. Please guard their hearts and grant them wisdom as they develop plans and policies for our beloved nation. O God, we also recognize that we need Your mercy and grace. We come before You heartbroken and concerned for the fate of our nation. We desperately need You.

Please forgive us where we have failed and help us turn from our selfish ways. Give us a bold faith to live in a way that honors and glorifies You. We trust in Your plan, Lord, and know that it holds a greater purpose. So, with that, we find comfort in You alone, no matter the outcome of this election. We will continue to walk in humility and grace as we remain faithful, seek Your wisdom, and promote peace. We love our nation and trust that You will offer a pathway forward that embraces hope and peace. Amen.