May 02, 2022
There are certain things that bring life, and others that produce death. Spiritual, God-given unity among His people is a life-giver, and the opposite is deadly.
THE PSALMIST POEM
King David knew both in his kingdom. Times of life-giving unity were as enriching as the oil that came down from God when Aaron, the high priest, was anointed. Or like the dew on Mt. Hermon (the mountain which is the source of water in Israel coming down from the north), or the dew that refreshed the mountains of Zion (Jerusalem).
Behold, how good and how pleasant it is For brothers to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious oil upon the head, coming down upon the beard, even Aaron’s beard, coming down upon the edge of his robes. It is like the dew of Hermon coming down upon the mountains of Zion; for there the Lord commanded the blessing—life forever. (Psalm 133:1-3)
A PERSONAL TESTIMONY
I’ve experienced both. I’ve pastored churches that had groups of contentious, controlling people. Gossip was abundant and it was deadly. There’s nothing worse. It sucks the life out of you.
For the last 24 years at The Summit, God has given us a unified people. No controlling factions, no gossip or slander, no contention, no fight for control. It has been extraordinary and life-giving to me and others. It has provided the environment for growth and health and lots of joy. It has, by God’s grace, given a life-giving testimony to a watching world. Why? The Lord commands this kind of blessing when His unity exists.
Be a life-giver. Walk in unity “as far as it lies within you” in your home, your church, your community. Be one of God’s life-givers to those around you.
Father, thank You for the privilege of seeing a foretaste of heaven. A people unified by Your Spirit, Your grace, and Your purpose. Keep me from robbing others of that picture by anything that would foster disunity. Help me walk in unceasing union with You, which will relate to unity with those who are doing the same.
March 29, 2023
As a pastor for the last 55 years, I have had the joy of being encouraged and blessed and prayed for by so many people. It is what carries you in your task of shepherding people. As I look back over five decades of ministry, their love has dramatically enriched my life.
But also, a pastor leads. And when anyone leads, there are almost always some who disagree.
March 28, 2023
March 27, 2023
