QT 9/28/2024 Ps 133:3, Unity causes others to grow

Psalm 133:title–3 (ESV) —

A Song of Ascents. Of David.

1 Behold, how good and pleasant it is

when brothers dwell in unity!

2 It is like the precious oil on the head,

running down on the beard,

on the beard of Aaron,

running down on the collar of his robes!

3 It is like the dew of Hermon,

which falls on the mountains of Zion!

For there the Lord has commanded the blessing,

life forevermore.

 

NOTE: Unity is the theme, but the illustrations are probably not as well appreciated in today's modern age. The one is verse 3 does fit if you think of a mountain where the water runs down and the dew in the morning covers all the plants. The valley is green and lush, everything grows well in that valley. That is the picture of unity, everything grows well when there is unity in the body of Christ and in smaller groups within the church.

 

But, where there is disunity, the opposite happens. When people fight, snipe, and are bitter toward others, there is no spiritual growth, just a worldly existence. The church is sapped of strength, because no one is growing in their relationship with the Lord. Sin blocks our relationship. The Holy Spirit is grieved. And one bitter person can be a root of bitterness that springs up and defiles everyone. It only takes one person.

 

PONDER:

1. Am I bitter or angry toward someone in the church?
2. Have I gone to God and repented of my sin of bitterness and asked him for the strength to love?

 

PRAYER: Father, I can't think of any issue that bothers me or any person I struggle with a relationship. I see difficult people, but I hold no grudge. I want your Holy Spirit to guide me in my relationships with others. Protect me from Satan's schemes.