One!

And may God, the source of patience and encouragement, enable you to have the same point of view among yourselves by following the example of Christ Jesus, so that all of you together may praise with one voice the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 15:5‭-‬6 GNB

I just have to copy today's extract in another version : May our dependably steady and warmly personal God develop maturity in you so that you get along with each other as well as Jesus gets along with us all. Then we’ll be a choir—not our voices only, but our very lives singing in harmony in a stunning anthem to the God and Father of our Master Jesus! Romans 15:5‭-‬6 MSG

I cannot emphasize enough that we are not called to a life of earthly comfort and convenience. God's Word gives teaches patience and provides encouragement as we run the race set before us. God's Word is the tonic to life, and an insurance against discouragement in the face of life's battles. Of course, the entire Word is about Christ, and his life teaches eternal lessons for our good. As I follow his examples of endurance and patience, maturity is build in me, and will definitely affect how I relate with other people. I cannot be in and of Christ and not have his heart. I cannot be called by his name and not have my life reflect his identity.

Being of one mind is seeking God's purpose. It is not a denial of our individuality, but a call to see the big picture: how can God be glorified in and through me. And as we all do this, in one voice and one heart, God is glorified. Our lives become a choir, very clear individual parts, singing different tunes, but with a harmony in voice and purpose. After all, the life, call, gifts and platform all belong to God and must give glory back to him. Is that true of my life? His time of favour is here.