Bring God joy

One of the greatest joys for a parent is to watch their children playing nicely together. It may seem like such a simple thing, but anyone who has ever had to deal with bickering brothers or squabbling sisters understands the beauty of watching their kids get along.

Even as you grow older, it's such a great joy to see your adult children relate as friends and allies rather than adversaries.

As the psalmist writes, it is the same way for God, our heavenly Father, when He sees His people living together in unity.

In fact, when Jesus prayed on the final night of His life on earth He asked God:

"I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. I pray that they will all be one." (John 17:20-21)

He knew just how important it would be for His church to be united if they were to fulfill the mission He would leave for them. Not only that, because Christ Himself was one with God the Father and the Spirit, He knew firsthand the incomparable joy of living in unity.

When you live in unity with other believers, this brings God great joy, as a proud parent watching his sons and daughters work, play, and live together.