Biblical Answer

The Power of Words in Building Unity

Words have the power to uplift or tear down. When we speak, we can either build bridges or create walls. In order to prioritize unity over division, we must be mindful of the impact our words can have on others. As the Bible teaches, "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God" (Colossians 3:16). This verse reminds us that our words should be used to build each other up, not tear each other down.

Choosing Words that Unite

When we choose to speak words of encouragement and affirmation, we can create an environment of unity and love. As Dan Allender and Tremper Longman remind us, "We need to talk" and do so without thinking that we must "come away with a victory" (Allender and Longman, 2014). This means that we should approach conversations with humility and a willingness to listen and learn from one another. By doing so, we can create a safe space for others to share their thoughts and feelings, leading to a deeper understanding and appreciation for each other's perspectives. As the Bible teaches, "We must all be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger" (James 1:19).

The Importance of Unity in the Body of Christ

In the body of Christ, unity is a vital aspect of our relationship with one another. As the Bible teaches, "There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of us all, who is above all and through all and in all" (Ephesians 4:4-6). This unity is rooted in the Spirit that we share as believers, and it is something that we must strive to maintain. By choosing words that uplift and encourage one another, we can work towards this goal of unity, even in the midst of disagreement. As the Bible teaches, "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace" (Ephesians 4:3). By doing so, we can create an environment of love, acceptance, and unity, where everyone feels valued and included.