One Team
For he who is not against us is on our side. ~ Mark 9:40
Have you ever noticed how easy it is to focus on what makes people different instead of what brings them together? Whether it is sports teams, political opinions, personal preferences, or even church traditions, people naturally tend to divide themselves into groups. We often spend more time identifying who is different from us than recognizing what we have in common.
Baseball season is in full swing. If you follow professional baseball, you probably watch your favorite team a couple of times each week. You may have even attended a game in person. Most ball parks have many of the same features. First of all, there is always the field that the game is played on. Then there are seats for fans, vendors selling food and souvenirs, restrooms, scoreboards, and walkways leading to each section. Yet despite all the similarities, the focus is usually on one thing, our team versus the other team.
In today’s reading, Jesus addressed a similar mindset. The disciples were concerned because someone outside their immediate group was casting out demons in Jesus’ name. They wanted to stop him because he wasn’t part of their circle. Jesus quickly corrected them. He explained that if someone was ministering in His name and bringing glory to God, they were not the enemy. In fact, they were on the same side.
Jesus wanted His disciples to understand that God’s kingdom is much bigger than their small group of followers. Anyone who genuinely serves Him, believes in Him, and ministers in His name are part of the same family.
I believe this is a message the body of Christ needs today. It is easy to become focused on denominational differences, worship styles, traditions, or secondary doctrinal issues. While there may be differences in how churches operate, if people believe in Jesus Christ as Savior, preach His Word, and are helping others in His name, they are all part of the same team.
The enemy would love nothing more than to divide believers and keep them focused on their differences. But Jesus calls us to unity, love, and cooperation in advancing His kingdom. We are not competing against one another. We are working together for the same purpose, sharing the good news of salvation and helping people come to know Him.
Here are a few practical ways to apply this truth:
- Pray for other churches and ministries in your community, not just your own.
- Celebrate what God is doing through other believers instead of comparing or criticizing.
- Look for opportunities to serve alongside Christians from different backgrounds.
- Speak words of encouragement about other ministries that are faithfully pointing people to Jesus.
- Remember that your fellow believers are not your competition, they are your teammates.
Here is how you can get started today:
• Ask God to reveal any attitudes of criticism or division that may have taken root in your heart.
• Make a list of churches, pastors, or ministries in your area and pray for them this week.
• Thank God for the unique gifts and strengths He has placed throughout the body of Christ.
• Look for ways to support and encourage fellow believers in their work for the kingdom.
Jesus finished this conversation by reminding His disciples that even a simple act of kindness done in His name will be rewarded. God sees every act of service, every prayer, every word of encouragement, and every effort made to build His kingdom.
Today I want to encourage you to see the bigger picture of God’s family. Refuse to allow differences to create division where Jesus intends unity. Celebrate the work God is doing through other believers, support those who are serving Him faithfully, and remember that we are all part of the same kingdom. When God’s people come together with a common purpose, His love shines brighter, His message reaches farther, and His kingdom advances in powerful ways. We are on the winning team, and there is room for every believer who calls on the name of Jesus.
Today’s Scripture Reading: Mark 9:38-41
38 Now John answered Him, saying, “Teacher, we saw someone who does not follow us casting out demons in Your name, and we forbade him because he does not follow us.”
39 But Jesus said, “Do not forbid him, for no one who works a miracle in My name can soon afterward speak evil of Me.
40 For he who is not against us is on our side.
41 For whoever gives you a cup of water to drink in My name, because you belong to Christ, assuredly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.
Journal:
- Have I allowed differences with other believers to affect my attitude toward them?
- How can I actively encourage unity within the body of Christ?
- Is there a church, ministry, or believer I can pray for and support this week?
- What gifts has God given me that can help strengthen His kingdom and serve others?
The Daily Dose 