“being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3).
God calls believers to live in unity—which is not uniformity. Unity in the Church doesn’t mean we have the same preferences, personalities, or perspectives. God designed each of us uniquely. But any time we prioritize our preferences over people, disunity is waiting around the corner. Getting along with other believers often requires diligence. So how do we guard the unity Christ has already given us?
Paul reminds us that our unity is rooted not in ourselves, but in the Spirit of God. “There is one body and one Spirit, just as also you were called in one hope of your calling…” (Ephesians 4:4). Unity isn’t something we produce—it’s something we preserve. Every believer is already united by the Holy Spirit into one body. To damage or divide that body is to harm ourselves and the cause of Christ.
How do we preserve this unity? Through Christlike attitudes. In verse 2, Paul lists the necessary ingredients: “With all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love.” These virtues aren’t natural but supernatural. They reflect the nature of Christ and can only be lived out through His Spirit within us.
When we walk in humility, gentleness, patience, and love, we avoid lashing out, holding grudges, or insisting on our own way. This doesn’t mean we become doormats or ignore sin. It means we put Christ first, others second, and ourselves last. It means we can endure wrongs without bitterness, and speak truth without compromise or pride.
And we’re to do all of this with love. Jesus said that our love for other believers should be second only to our love for God (Matthew 22:36–39). In fact, loving each other the way Jesus loves us is how the world knows we belong to Him (John 13:34-35). Some believers may be harder to love—but someone may be thinking the same about you!
How well are you getting along with other believers? Ask yourself: How am I showing patience and grace toward difficult personalities? Am I willing to set aside my preferences for the sake of peace? Remember, when preferences become principles, we become divisive. The Holy Spirit has already given you everything needed to live in unity. The more you yield to Him, the more your attitudes will reflect the nature of Christ.
