Devotions Archive Archive: 1999 | 2000 | 2001 | 2002 | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 Search Archive Print This Article Unity or division Thursday, May 20, 1999 John 17:23 Jesus prays, "May they be brought to complete unity." "Unity comes from God; division comes from the devil." In a conversation I will never forget, my friend Steve Staggs made that statement and forever simplified life for me. It is not so important to be right. More important to be on the team. Regarding the marriage relationship, Ed Wheat writes, "The truth about criticism is almost startling when fully grasped: criticism can actually be the death blow to love and intimacy ... remember the potent power of praise and form the habit of consistently building up rather than tearing down. I do not recall when my wife and I last criticized each other." In his prayer Jesus goes on to explain that unity will "let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me." Choosing unity rather than being right comes more naturally as I bask in God's love within me. As I work with my brother or sister the joy and power of this love touches them too. In this way what we in our limited vision call "psychology" becomes supernatural, and God enters our relationships to make them healing and whole. What I cherish most, Lord, is YOUR peace, which surpasses MY understanding. Thank you. "; Add      Edit    Delete