Faith is not just about what we believe—it’s about how we live. As you work through these devotionals, my prayer is that you will grow stronger, stand firmer, and live bolder for Christ. No matter what comes, you can remain unshaken because your foundation is in Him. – John O’Malley
Below is an excerpt from Bro. John O’Malley’s book, Unshaken: Strengthening Your Faith. If you would like to read the book in its entirety, please click here.
Refocusing on Unity
1 Corinthians 1:10 “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.”
Learn About It
Paul begins his letter to the Corinthians by addressing one of their biggest struggles—division. Corinth was a city filled with competing philosophies, social classes, and personal ambitions. Unfortunately, these same divisions had crept into the church, leading believers to form factions based on their preferred leaders: Paul, Apollos, Cephas (Peter), or even Christ (1 Corinthians 1:12).
Paul’s plea is urgent: he beseeches them. This word means he is strongly urging or even begging them to set aside their differences. But he doesn’t just make an emotional appeal—he calls on the authority of “the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” as the foundation for unity. True Christian unity is not about personal preference but about being “perfectly joined together” in the truth of Christ.
This does not mean every believer will always agree on every issue. Instead, Paul is calling for oneness in heart, purpose, and doctrine, particularly in matters of faith and practice. The phrase “same mind and same judgment” refers to the importance of shared convictions and a common understanding of Christ’s teaching. Unity is not achieved by ignoring truth, but by rallying around it.
Apply It to Me
We often see division in churches today, just as in Corinth. Sometimes it happens over doctrine, but more often, it arises from personalities, preferences, and pride. Have you ever found yourself frustrated with someone in the church, not because of a biblical issue, but because they have a different opinion or approach?
Paul challenges us to examine whether our attitude promotes unity or fuels division. Are we more concerned with being “right” than with being Christlike? Are we quick to dismiss someone just because they see things differently? The key to unity is not uniformity—it’s humility.
Think about your own interactions within the church. Do your words and actions reflect the unity Paul speaks of? Or do they create unnecessary division?
Talk to God About It
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for calling me into fellowship with Your people. I know that, at times, my pride, opinions, or frustrations can get in the way of the unity You desire for Your church. Forgive me for any ways I have contributed to division, whether through my words, actions, or attitudes. Help me to focus on what truly matters—Your truth, Your love, and Your mission. Teach me to listen with grace, speak with wisdom, and pursue unity with a heart that honors You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Act on It
Think of one person in your church whom you may have disagreed with or had tension with. This week, make an effort to pray for them daily. If possible, encourage them with a kind word, a text, or a note—especially if they don’t expect it.
John O’Malley
If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. O’Malley to let him know.