Frankly, one of the reasons that families, nations, and even churches struggle with unity is that it just isn’t easy.
Have you ever thought about what unity requires?
Unity requires me to value the feelings of others more than my own. That’s never easy.
Unity listens before it speaks.
Unity needs forgiveness and forbearance to smooth over those rough patches when it would be easier to nurse a grudge.
Unity demands wisdom to discern the difference between absolutes and negotiables. It must have generosity to compromise where possible and courage to stand where it must.
Unity thrives on honesty and communication instead of gossip and speculations.
Unity exists only when people are willing to listen to each other and not assume the worst about those with whom they disagree.
Unity loves instead of hates.
Unity takes a long view. It doesn’t throw in the towel after a setback.
Unity prioritizes the conflicts it faces. It won’t make a mountain out of a molehill. It knows what hill is worth dying on.
Unity seeks to understand before being understood.
Unity stresses a willingness to change when confronted with valid new information. It can’t be hemmed in its own rut.
Unity is based on commitment to the greater good, not a personal agenda.
Division is always easier than unity, but David nailed it when he said, “How good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!” (Psalm 133:1).