Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:3

As we consider unity in Ephesians 4:3, we see that “unity” is connected with verses 1 and 2; “As a prisoner of the Lord, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle, be patient in bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”

Each of us knows the temptation to be difficult and to cause disunity within a fellowship, and we know how easily this sin can beset us. That old tempter whispers in our ear, “Did God really say?…”, and we’re off and running in our flesh while forgetting that we are called to walk in the Spirit.

How then can we make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace? Our efforts must begin with humility, gentleness, and peace.

As we continue our study of Ephesians 4, we discover key teachings in verses 29-31, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen… do not grieve God the Holy Spirit… get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling, and slander, along with every form of malice.” Remember, Paul is talking to Christians and it sounds like we’re in trouble!

But in Christ Jesus, there is hope for us as we read his Word and pray, “Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips.” (Psalm 141:3 NKJV)

Our efforts to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace are strengthened as we follow Colossians 3:2, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things,” and Philippians 4:8 (NKJV ), “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble… whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.” By obeying God’s Word through the enablement of the Holy Spirit, we will keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace!