I’m sure your family is just like mine. We can be kindhearted to each other and get along, but we can also be inconsiderate and fall out. We criticize, behind the other person’s back. In a crisis, when we should pull together, stress seems to tear us apart.
Jesus knew all about families not getting along. After all, he was part of one, and often his brothers were irritated with his behavior.
So, it should be no surprise Jesus knew his spiritual family would have problems, too, because, well frankly, we’re human!
During his last hours on earth, Jesus prayed for his spiritual brothers and sisters—for you and me, and all people who believe in him.
He specifically prayed for our unity.
By this, he did not mean we have to be alike, but we should be joined together in love for one another.
When you think about individuals within your home or church family, how do you feel about them?
Is there someone who pops into your mind right now who you don’t get on well with?
Notice the emotions rising up inside you. Do you have patience with them? Have you been kind and gentle towards them? Do you want to build them up?
Or, do you wish to tear them down, just a little? Do you sense any anger or “she makes me so mad” kind of reaction? Perhaps you feel bitter or jealous. Maybe you believe you are justified in being hostile to them. It could be their behavior makes it hard for you to be tolerant of them, let alone love them.
Jesus didn’t pray for us to be united so we would be one big happy family. Instead, he knew our love for each other was essential if other people were going to be drawn to him.
Remember, our struggle is not with other people. The Bible reminds us we are not fighting against humans. We are fighting against the powers of darkness. Let’s not let the enemy get a foothold in our family.
When you pray for other people, especially individuals with whom you serve, then take time to think truthfully about your feelings for each person. We should consider, as we make personal prayer: Is anything standing in the way of me loving that person? If so, talk to God honestly about it, and ask him to help you have a change of heart.
Linking up with Ember Grey at #GratefulHeart, Krista Q at #MeetUpMonday, Abby McDonald at #RaRaLinkup, Holly Barrett at #TestimonyTuesday, Jaime Wiebel at #SittingAmongFriends and Holley Gerth at #CoffeeForYourHeart