Unity & Stumbling Blocks

     One of the greatest tactics the enemy uses is to divide the body of Christ. He knows that when we allow him into our problems in Christs body, he starts creating stumbling blocks and creating division. These stumbling blocks can get dangerous because they can mislead others especially children. They have also turned believers against God. God will use these situations eventually for His glory but when in pain it can be hard to see or understand that concept. Church hurt is inevitable; it will always be around as long as we are on earth. However, we can do our part to ensure it does not happen and this starts with understanding who is behind all of these situations and creates the problems we have with each other. Also, to start holding one another accountable in the right way.

     The Bible warns us about stumbling blocks in Romans 14:13 Let us not therefore judge one another anymore: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumbling block or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.

     The enemy also enjoys creating division amongst believers. If he is not creating stumbling blocks to turn others against one another he is fueling every argument, disagreement or unfavorable opinion we have towards one another. The Lord hates division and wants us to remain united. The book of Ephesians explains unity and how we are to handle one another. 

Ephesians 4:25-32 Therefore, putting away lying. Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor, for we are members of one another. Be angry, and do not sin. Do not let the sun go down on your wrath nor give place to the devil. Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need. Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.

     We need to get this bully out of our relationships and the first step in helping here is to stop feeding him and instead understand how he masterminds and creates these problems. Once we do that we can start growing and understanding where true unity lies; in coming together in Christ.