United We Stand

Perhaps one of the most tragic outcomes from all the societal upheaval in recent years is the death of trust. From fear of a spreading virus or a mass shooting by a neighbor to a war of words and even violence in our politics to cancelling friendships over differences of opinion—trust has been broken to the point many are continuing to voluntarily self-isolate. Risk being hurt by those people? No, thank you.

Sadly, the trends have led to distrust even among our dear friends and family… and among our fellow believers. So how do we negotiate this untrustworthy time, and how do we teach our children to love others truly and not be afraid to trust?

We look to Jesus and the example of love and trust that he showed, specifically to his call to live in unity with one another.

“I want all of them to be one with each other, just as I am one with you and you are one with me. I also want them to be one with us. Then the people of this world will believe that you sent me.”
John 17:21 (CEV)

Jesus prayed that his followers would be in unity, with one mind. In order to be a part of that body, we have to share with others who we are. We have to invest, to risk, to entrust our hearts while trusting God to help us when people fail and when we fail people.

Trust grows through building unity with one another. God himself trusted a young virgin with his Son. Jesus trusted his close friends with his feelings and struggles by weeping in front of them, lamenting with them, and pleading for them to pray with him. Jesus also understood people’s hearts and knew when to not entrust himself to them. He did not give them power over him. He chose his interactions wisely.

We are one body, one family. In today’s volatile world, it is more important than ever before to come together in Christ. We cannot let the things of this world divide us. We must stand strong on the truths found in the Word and on his promises.

PRAY

God, it is a scary world. But I don’t want my children to be isolated by fear. Please help us grow closer to our Christian community. Help us live in unity. Amen.

TIME TO TALK

Conversation starter for kids: Provides you with questions and prompts to facilitate a time of applicable discussion with children to lead them towards knowing God and His Word more deeply.

Question(s): How can being part of a Christian community make us stronger?

Apply: For older kids: What happens to our faith and trust when we surround ourselves only with unbelievers?

KEEP IT GOING

Related passages: These additional verses will help parents expand Scriptural knowledge and place on the armor of God’s Word to tackle each day. Swipe to read the passages today.

John 2:24-25

1 Corinthians 13:7