“Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion…” (Phil 2:1)

There is a force at work in the heart of a believer. It is a work of God to you…but His intent is also to pour it through you!

These four statements, that begin chapter two of Philippians, have a dual focus. Not double-minded—but, double-edged! These are four things that work from God toward us. But, they are also a work of God that moves through us—to others.

Look at this way:

• Since the person and work of Christ encourages your heart—you must let His encouragement work through you to others.
• Since God came near you in the love He demonstrated through Christ and His cross—you must be about the business of consoling others with His (agape) love. You must let love move you in close to whisper words of comfort and strength.
• Since the Holy Spirit is at work in you to establish your fellowship with the Father—you must be on the lookout for those who also fellowship with Him and share your new life with them.
• Since there is a deep working of His affection and caring; and since He is pouring out His mercies as fresh life in your heart—you must move beyond the surface greetings and minister mercy to the deep needs of those God puts in your path.

Unity is not an attempt to pour everyone into the “right” container. Unity is the force of God at work in your heart drawing you heavenward and using you to help others see Him.