May 13
The Unity
of the Spirit
Ephesians 4:3
Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
Daily Steps
The natural tendency in human relationships is fragmentation and division. For the new believer, this verse reveals that unity is not something we create, but something we already possess in Christ that must be actively kept. This effort is essential for securing relational peace.
The peace in this command is found in the nature of our calling:
Unity is Already Established: We have the "unity of the Spirit." This means that all true believers are already one family, united by the Holy Spirit. This spiritual fact removes the burden of creating unity and replaces it with the task of preserving it.
Peace is the Bond: The means by which we keep this unity is "through the bond of peace." Peace must be the glue that holds relationships together. This requires patience, gentleness, and humility (Ephesians 4:2), which prevents our differences from becoming divisions.
The Effort is Intentional: We are commanded to "Make every effort." Maintaining relational peace requires constant, intentional vigilance. It involves overlooking minor offenses and prioritizing the common bond of Christ over personal preferences or disagreements.
Your relational peace is secured by prioritizing the unity of the Spirit. Your commitment to peace-making in the body of Christ is a direct act of obedience that brings harmony to your inner and outer life.
Reflective Question
What minor offense or disagreement are you currently allowing to disrupt your relationship with another believer? How can you consciously make every effort today to let the bond of peace overcome that issue?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I confess my carelessness in allowing small issues to break unity. I thank You for the unity of the Spirit You have already given us. Give me the strength and humility to make every effort to keep that unity today through the bond of peace. May my relationships in the Body of Christ reflect Your harmony and secure my peace. Amen.
