Word of the Week - Harmony
“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity (Harmony)! It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down on the collar of his robe. It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the Lord bestows His blessing, even life forevermore.” Psalm 133
Personal Reflection - The tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk at a public event is a sobering reminder of how far our country has drifted from unity and harmony. In the aftermath, we see politicized blame, hateful rhetoric, fear, and distrust—symptoms of deep disharmony in our culture. It presses on me how much we need what Psalm 133 describes: harmony that comes from shared values and a higher purpose. For me, this is a call not only for our nation but also for my personal relationships—to soften my words, to choose compassion over being right, and to seek unity even when differences remain. In these fractured times, pursuing harmony isn’t optional; it is essential if we are to reflect Christ to the world.
What is Harmony - Harmony is the state of living with an agreeable and conforming spirit toward others, with shared values and a higher purpose in mind. Like a willing spirit, harmony is a blessing but requires intentionality. Our sinful nature leans toward independence and disharmony, while culture today often magnifies division instead of common ground. But in Christ, we have a foundation to live in peace and unity with one another.
Here are a few guiding principles for building Harmony in our lives, relationships, and the cultures we steward:
Start with Common Ground - If we are in relationship with someone—whether family, friends, or colleagues—we already share much. Building on those shared values and purposes strengthens trust and creates unity. In business, family, or church, when the team’s vision and values are placed above personal preferences, harmony follows. “Then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.” (Philippians 2:2)
Define the Majors and Minors - Harmony does not mean uniformity. We can have different personalities, methods, or preferences without undermining unity. The key is not to major in the minors. In faith, the essentials (the Cross, Trinity, Christ as the way to the Father) must remain central. But secondary things like style of worship or denomination should not divide us. “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 14:17)
Be Willing to Yield and Compromise - Harmony grows out of humility. None of us are without flaws or blind spots. Valuing others’ perspectives—even when different—requires a posture of yielding. It is far better to be united with some compromise than to be divided and “right.” “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:2–3)
Challenge Question
Where do you need to lay down personal preference or pride this week in order to pursue greater harmony in your marriage, family, friendships, workplace—or even in how you engage with the division in our nation?
Closing Prayer
Lord, help us to pursue harmony with those around us—at home, at work, in our churches, and in our nation. Give us the humility to yield when needed, the wisdom to focus on what truly matters, and the courage to place shared values above personal agendas. May our unity be a witness of Your love and power in a divided world.
“We must learn to live together as brothers and sisters or perish as fools.”
– Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Have a week filled with peace and harmony!