“… that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me.”
—JOHN 17:23

It is unfortunate when Christians can’t get along or even refuse to have anything to do with one another. Not only does this harm our witness to an unbelieving world, but it turns us away from God’s priorities for us.

No church has cornered the market on God’s truth, and in my travels around the world I have found sincere believers in virtually every church and denomination imaginable. I know the issues are complex and won’t be solved this side of eternity, but that is no excuse for lovelessness and conflict.

Shortly before His death on the cross, Jesus prayed for unity among those who would come to believe in Him. When the world sees Christians fighting, they wonder if the Gospel is really true. Only Satan wins when sincere Christians reject one another.

Do what you can to live at peace with your fellow believers—and join your Lord in praying for the unity of Christ’s people so “that the world may believe” (John 17:21).

Wisdom for Today

Discord among Your people, Lord, is a tool of the enemy to distract us from the mission of the Church. Help us live in unity with other believers so Your name is honored and unbelievers do not turn away because of what they see in us.