United In the Spirit
“Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace.” Ephesians 4:3 (ESV)
Love and greetings to you all. Today, I wanted us to focus on what it means to be united in the Spirit. This was a constant theme in Paul’s letters. Understandably so. As the early church expanded, the Jews and Greeks, the rich and the poor, the young and the old, the politically well-connected and those who were not, were included. Dissentions began to creep in which led to quarrelling and divisions (1 Cor 3:4). Paul encouraged believers to make every effort to keep united in the Spirit (Eph 4:3)
What does it mean – to keep yourselves united in the Spirit?
Firstly, each one must be joined to the body of Christ, be part of one faith and one family with God as our Father (Eph 4:5-6). This happens when we choose to believe in Jesus as our Lord and Saviour and are born again. When we are in Christ we are united to God. This unity is supernatural. Something that God does (1 Cor 6:17).
Secondly, on our part, we are to endeavour (strive and make effort) to keep ourselves united. One way to do this is to remain in fellowship with one another. It is especially important in today’s times when it is difficult to gather in large numbers. Note that the early church could not meet in large numbers either. Public Christian gatherings often resulted in persecution and even death. Yet they found ways to keep united with one another. How can we do the same?
Fellowship with one another: While it may not be possible to meet in large gatherings, we can still fellowship in small groups. This can be with family or friends, a few neighbours, or church members. Here at KIC - Lubowa we encourage where possible that you get involved in our small groups*. For more information on the groups that meet, refer to our newsletter.
Stay in touch and encourage one another: Paul was isolated and locked up in prison yet stayed in touch and regularly encouraged his spiritual children. He did this through his letters as well as through messengers who visited him (Rom 16). Today we have technology which helps significantly. Last week’s message by Jaja Maggie reminded us to be thankful of benefits we have in this generation (thank you Jaja Maggie!). One of this is technology which helps us connect with friends and family, near and far. I recently got in touch with an uncle who lives abroad, whom we hadn’t heard from in a long time. We were concerned about him. When we spoke, he mentioned that several of his acquaintances had died recently and it was a painful time for him. It was an opportunity to encourage him to stay strong in the faith despite the circumstances. Stay in touch!
Pray for one another: Paul says it clearly in his letter to the Thessalonians “Brothers, pray for us” (1 Thess 5:25). Remember other people in your prayers. Understand that for God’s will to be done here on earth, human hearts have to be willing to corporate and agree. One way to do this is through prayer for others. There are believers who face persecution, discouragement, hardship etc. We may not be able to connect with them directly – but we can pray for them.
Look for opportunities to help others: Each part of the human body exists to help or work with other parts. None lives in isolation or for itself. Gal 6:10, encourages us to do good to everyone – and especially to other believers. Our last newsletter had a testimony of how believers took the initiative to provide help to the community. There are many ways to help others. Ask God to direct you to opportunities where you can bless others in this way. You will be blessed in turn.
Remain blessed everyone! Happy Father’s Day to all!
QUESTIONS FOR MEDITATION/DISCUSSION
1. The above devotion lists 4 ways to remain in fellowship. Can you mention or testify of others? Refer to: Jam 5:16, Eph 4:32, Rom 12:15, Rom 16:16, Mark 9:50
2. How can you do good to others? Refer to: Gal 6:9 -10.
3. Read: Acts 15:36-41 which describes the sharp disagreement that arose between Paul and Barnabas. What can you learn learn from this passage about how you can disagree with believers, yet remain united in the Spirit? Refer also to: Rom 12:18, Col 4:10
PRAYER POINTS
· Pray for the fellowship of believers worldwide.
· Pray for non-believers that you know. The harvest is plentiful, labourers few. Pray for labourers (yourself included) to be equipped, willing and able to reach them with the message of the Kingdom of God. We long for true godly fellowship with them.
*Note that even as we meet in small groups, we should continue to follow the national guidelines provided on staying safe.
