United in Love | Day 26 Freedom Season Devotional

Scripture: Colossians 3:14
In addition to all these things put on love, which is [a]the perfect bond of unity. (NASB)

In my family, we don’t always agree on everything. We have our share of differences of opinion, spats and squabbles. But at the end of the day, we love each other fiercely. Love is the tie that binds us together as a single unit. We are all individuals, each with his/her own personality, opinions and ideas, but as a family, we are a single unit. 

The same is true in the body of Christ. Or at least it should be. Unfortunately, though, too many times a difference of opinion, or of biblical interpretation, leads to a permanent parting of the ways, often with wounds and offense attached that can affect those involved for years to come. Even for a lifetime. 

It should not be this way. Colossians chapter 3 is a roadmap for relational unity in the body. The final verses instruct us to walk in compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience and forgiveness. Paul tells us to put these things on. When you put something on, like a coat or a shirt, it covers whatever you are wearing (or not wearing) underneath. It becomes what others see when they look at you. When we put on the love of Jesus, that is what others will see when they look at us.

Love is the glue (bond) of unity. It is the cement that holds it all together. Without love, all the other pieces can drift away from each other, resulting in a scattered mess. May we wear the love of Jesus like a garment so that when others see us, they see Him.

Reflection: Is there a situation in your life that needs the love of Jesus applied to restore unity? 

Prayer: Heavenly Father, let Your love guide my thoughts, words and actions today. Where there is strife and discord, please teach me how to apply Your love and be Your minister of reconciliation. Amen.