What Counts

My friend recounted how she’d pointedly been asked by a fellow believer and colleague which political party she belonged to. His aim in asking the question seemed to be to predict whether he agreed with her on any number of issues currently dividing their community� In an effort to find common ground between them, she simply replied, “Since we’re both believers, I’d rather focus on our unity in Christ.”

People were also divided in Paul’s day, though over different issues. Topics such as what foods were permissible to eat and what days were considered holy brought disagreement among the Christians in Rome. Despite being “fully convinced in their own mind” on whichever position they held, Paul reminds them of their common ground: living for Jesus (ROMANS 14:5–9). Instead of passing judgement on one another, he encouraged them to “do what leads to peace and to mutual edification” (V. 19)�

In an era when many countries, churches and communities are divided over issues large and small, we can point one another to the unifying truth of Christ’s work on the cross to secure our life with Him eternally. Paul’s reminder that we ought not “destroy the work of God” (V. 20) with our individual positions is as timely today as it was 2,000 years ago. Instead of passing judgement on one another, we can act in love and live in a way that honours our brothers and sisters�

Kirsten Holmberg

A Prayer for Unity

Jesus, thank You for saving me and my Christian brothers and sisters by Your grace. Forgive me for the times I get distracted by lesser issues and allow division to occur between myself and other believers. Help me to bring unity through focusing on You. May Your peace be felt and shared throughout my church family. Amen

A Prayer for Reconciliation

Loving God, it’s so easy to descend into a spirit of resentment and bitterness towards others, even fellow believers in You. But I know that there’s a better way—teach me that way. Help me to love and offer reconciliation to those I struggle with. Give me a heart of prayer and compassion; I want to serve Your people with grace and peace. Amen

A Prayer to Rejoice in Differences

Loving Creator and Sustainer, help me to love You and love others, celebrating our variety of personalities whilst rejoicing in our shared love of You and Your Kingdom. You church is a marvellous revelation of Your wisdom, showcasing that Your grace is for everyone and that Your Spirit can beautifully connect anyone. Help me not to be hindered or intimidated by the differences I see in others, but encouraged that You have made us each uniquely in Your own image. Amen

5 Verses about Peace Between Believers

1

Make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. Romans 14:19

2 God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people.

1 Corinthians 14:33

3 Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace� And the God of love and peace will be with you

4

2 Corinthians 13:11

He himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. Ephesians 2:14-15

5

Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord� Hebrews 12:14