(Ephesians 4:2-6)
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
Choosing to follow Jesus should represent a massive shift in our priorities. Instead of putting ourselves first, we’re called to put unity first. This means that we choose a posture of humility and gentleness toward others, even when it means we don’t get the recognition we believe we might deserve.
This unity is essential to maintaining peace within the kingdom of God, but it also confirms the truth of the gospel to the world around us. This is why Jesus tells His disciples, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:35).