Scripture:
John 17:20–23 (ESV)
“I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me.”
Unity isn’t just a nice idea; it was Jesus’ final prayer for us before He went to the cross. Let that sink in. Of all the things He could’ve asked the Father for, He prayed that we, His Church, would be one. Not just theologically aligned or sitting in the same building on a Sunday, but united in heart, love, purpose, and mission.
And yet, we’ve all seen what division can do to a church. I’ve seen how unspoken offenses can build silent walls. I’ve felt the tension when spiritual pride creeps in and people start choosing sides instead of choosing humility. But I’ve also seen what happens when people commit to forgiveness, when they keep short accounts, and when they refuse to let the enemy win by sowing disunity.
Unity is spiritual warfare. It doesn’t happen by accident. It takes intentional prayer, submission, and the willingness to die to self, for the sake of the whole.
So today, we intercede. Not just for agreement, but for alignment. For healing from past wounds and fresh grace for present tensions. For leadership teams to be one in Spirit, for racial and generational unity to flourish, for our hearts to beat together for the name of Jesus, not just our personal preferences.
And let’s not forget unity is not uniformity. It’s diversity held together by love. It’s when we each bring our piece, and Jesus forms a whole. It’s messy sometimes, but it’s holy.
Listening Prayer:
Holy Spirit, is there any offense, pride, or assumption in my heart that’s keeping me from being one with my brothers and sisters in Christ? Is there anyone I need to forgive or reach out to?
Prayer:
Father, we come into agreement with the prayer of Jesus—that we would be one. Forgive us for where we’ve allowed offense, comparison, competition, or fear to divide us. Heal what’s been broken and restore what’s been strained. Unify our hearts, our homes, and our church for Your glory. Let us be known not by our style or size, but by our love. Help us to honor one another, to listen well, and to fight for connection. Let our unity be a witness to the world that Jesus is alive in us. In His name we pray, amen.
Resources: Bible verses on Unity
Ephesians 4:2–3
“With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”
Psalm 133:1
“Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!”
Romans 15:5–6
“May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another… that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Worship Song: