March 10, 2026
- djohnstoncc
- Mar 10
- 2 min read
COMMON GROUND
TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
“Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace. For there is one body and one Spirit, just as you have been called to one glorious hope for the future. There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all, in all, and living through all.”
Ephesians 4:3-6 NLT
TODAY’S THOUGHT
Before Paul talks about our different functions (apostles, prophets, etc.), he talks about our foundation. He lists seven things that every single believer has in common, regardless of their background or personality.
Years ago, I read a little poem that I have often found very true for many followers of Christ.
To live above with saints of old,
Oh, that will be glory.
To live below with the saints I know,
Now that’s a different story!
The "Every Effort" Mandate
Notice that Paul doesn't say "create" unity; he says "keep" it. Through Christ, the unity already exists. Our job is to be the "security guards" of that peace.
He gives us four tools to help us maintain this bond:
Humility: Not thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less.
Gentleness: Power under control.
Patience: Giving others the room to be "under construction."
Allowance: Making excuses for others' faults because of your love for them.
The Oneness Checklist
When you find yourself at odds with another believer, go back to the "Seven Ones":
We serve the same Lord.
We are filled with the same Spirit.
We are heading toward the same Hope.
If we have the same Father and the same Future, we can certainly handle a few "present tense" disagreements.
Reflection for Today
Is there a "wall" starting to build between you and another member of the Body?
Remember: You are "bound together with peace." Don't let a temporary offense break an eternal bond.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Holy Spirit, help me to work for peace and unity. Show me any relationship in my life that needs Your grace and help. Empower me through Your presence to work for unity.
“Scroll down to share what you feel God is saying based on today’s reading.”
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