Can't we all just get along?

We all know that there is a lot of division in the political scope of this country. That is not a secret whatsoever to anyone. What isn't discussed is the division that is right in our circles, whether that is friends, family, community, work or even church. That is correct, I said even in the church. Why can't we all just get along? The Bible tells us in Psalm 133:1, "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is For brethren to dwell together in unity!" Such a profound statement that is made with emphasis. Shouted, exclaimed, hence the exclamation point at the end of that verse. So much weight is given to this idea. Knowing that this is good and pleasant for all we should strive to live in this manner. Division is brought in by so many different means and avenues with a goal of disruption. Unity is a bond that shatters the attempt of the division. Unity is bold enough to reject the notion of isolation. When all parts are working together in unison, things move more readily, swiftly, easily, and produce a greater outcome than individuality ever could. To have a conclusion as one factor as the driving force of division is not something that we can determine. Each scenario would define its own. Friendships are broken in many different ways than those in the workplace. Different reasons prevail as to why others feel or direct themselves in such ways. But ultimately, the divisiveness comes from a place of jealousy or anger, a place of resentment, or a place of attention grabbing for one direction or another. On the contrary, unity is not merely an ideal, but a blessing meant to be lived and experienced. Unity begins with relationships. The psalm speaks of "brethren," emphasizing shared identity and mutual belonging. Whether in families, faith communities, workplaces or nations, unity flourishes when people recognize that they are connected to one another. It does not mean uniformity or the absence of differences. Rather, unity is the ability to live, work and grow together despite those differences. Psalm 133:1 invites us to see unity as a choice to value relationship over rivalry and understanding over discord. Beyond personal satisfaction, unity has transformative power. Unified people can accomplish far more together than they ever could apart. History and everyday experience show that cooperation leads to growth, healing and progress. Psalm 133 as a whole goes on to compare unity to precious oil and refreshing dew, symbols of blessing, abundance and life. These images suggest that unity creates an environment where blessings flow freely and life can flourish. In times of conflict and division, this verse serves as both encouragement and challenge. It encourages us by reminding us how good unity can be, and it challenges us to pursue it actively. Unity does not require agreement on everything, but it does require a commitment to respect and care for one another. It calls us to listen more than we speak and to seek common ground rather than focusing on differences. Unity enriches relationships, strengthens communities, and honors God. When brethren dwell together in unity, life becomes not only more productive but more meaningful. In embracing unity, we embrace a way of living that is truly good and deeply pleasant. So I ask you, why can't we all just get along? Rev. Steven Temple is the pastor of The Church on the Hill in Rose Hill, Virginia. You can reach him at pastor.steven.temple@gmail.com.