May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus. – Romans 15:5

Harmony in music is a blending of sounds to make a beautiful, rich composition that can stir your heart. Harmony in a group of people comes from sharing the same purpose or vision, but that could be either negative or positive. In the time after the Flood, “The whole earth had one language and the same words,” and their purpose became one of building a tower to the heavens so they could make a name for themselves (Genesis 11:1-4). The intent was to prove their sufficiency apart from God. The Lord shifted the unity of that situation to the profound confusion of new and different languages, which dispersed the people over the face of the earth.

God’s intervention was one of discipline in that situation. Look at the description of Him in today’s verse. He is the God of endurance and encouragement – One who is patient with you and will comfort you in affliction. The example He gives to believers in Christ directs you to live in harmony with one another, taking every opportunity to be an encourager to others. No one’s faith is so strong that they do not need a good word; neither is anyone so weak that they cannot encourage another.

Stay steadfast in the truth of God’s Word, especially in times of uncertainty, and unite with fellow believers in the principles He has set out in Scripture. Pray for each other, and intercede for those who govern this nation. Encourage those around you to trust and rely solely on the Lord. May God’s mercy rest upon this country through the prayers of His Church.