5 Day Devotional from The Unified Church (Part 2): A Unified Focus

Day 1: Unity in Christ's Calling
Reading: Ephesians 4:1-6
Devotional: As we begin this journey, let's reflect on our calling in Christ. Paul urges us to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called" (Ephesians 4:1). This calling isn't just an individual pursuit, but a collective one that unites us as the body of Christ. Today, consider how your life reflects this calling. Are you living in a way that honors Christ and promotes unity within His church? Remember, our unity is not based on our similarities, but on the one Lord we serve, the one faith we profess, and the one baptism we share. As you go about your day, look for ways to embody humility, gentleness, and patience in your interactions with others, fostering the unity that Christ desires for His church.

Day 2: The Fruit of the Spirit in Unity
Reading: Galatians 5:22-26
Devotional: Yesterday, we reflected on our calling in Christ. Today, let's focus on how the Holy Spirit refines our character to promote unity. The fruit of the Spirit - love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control - are not just individual virtues, but the very qualities that bind us together in Christ. As you read today's passage, ask yourself: Which of these fruits do I see growing in my life? Which ones need more nurturing? Remember, these are not traits we force ourselves to have, but the natural outcome of allowing the Spirit to work in us. Today, choose one fruit to focus on and pray for the Spirit's help in cultivating it in your interactions with others.

Day 3: Aligning with Christ
Reading: Colossians 3:1-17
Devotional: Our unity in Christ comes from aligning ourselves with Him. Today's reading reminds us to set our minds on things above, not on earthly things. This alignment with Christ is what allows us to "put on" the new self, clothed with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Notice how these qualities echo the fruit of the Spirit we considered yesterday. As you read, reflect on areas of your life that may not be fully aligned with Christ. Are there attitudes or behaviors you need to "put off"? What would it look like to more fully "put on" your new self in Christ? Today, choose one specific way you can align your thoughts or actions more closely with Christ's character.

Day 4: Unity in Diversity
Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
Devotional: Today's passage beautifully illustrates how unity doesn't mean uniformity. Just as a body has many parts with different functions, so too does the church. This diversity is not a hindrance to unity, but essential to it. Reflect on your own gifts and role within the body of Christ. How do you contribute to the overall unity and function of your local church? Also, consider how you view and value those with different gifts or roles. Do you truly appreciate the diversity within the body, or do you sometimes wish everyone was more like you? Today, make an effort to affirm and encourage someone whose gifts are different from your own, recognizing how their unique contribution enhances the unity of the whole body.

Day 5: The Power of Unity in Witness
Reading: John 17:20-26
Devotional: We conclude our week with Jesus' prayer for unity among His followers. Notice how Jesus links our unity to our witness to the world. He prays "that they may all be one... so that the world may believe that you have sent me" (John 17:21). Our unity is not just for our own benefit, but serves as a powerful testimony to the reality of Christ's love and the truth of the gospel. As you reflect on this passage, consider how the unity (or lack thereof) in your local church impacts your witness to the community. What steps can you take to foster greater unity within your church? Today, pray for unity among all believers, and especially within our local congregation at Pawhuska First. Identify one way you can encourage others and help foster unity.