One Heart, One Soul

Summary

In this sermon, the Pastor M'Lisa explored what it means to live with "One Heart, One Soul" by aligning ourselves completely with Jesus. She began with the foundational idea from Colossians 3:23-24 that our lives are not compartmentalized; whatever we do should be done for the Lord. The message then unfolded in three key parts: aligning our hearts with Christ as the source of unity, building others up instead of competing with them, and actively practicing the "one another" life of community to combat the enemy's strategy of isolation. Ultimately, she challenged us to apply these principles not just at church, but in our most important relationships at home.

Ice breaker

Have you ever tried to do a two-person activity, like paddling a canoe or carrying a large piece of furniture, where you and your partner were completely out of sync? What happened?

Opening prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word and for the community you have placed us in. As we open our hearts to this discussion, we ask you to soften them. Help us to see where we have compartmentalized our lives, keeping parts of ourselves from you. Teach us to surrender our own plans and preferences so that we can come into alignment with the heart of Jesus and with one another. May this time together build a unity that honors you. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Key verses

• Colossians 3:23-24 on YouVersion (opens in a new tab)
• Philippians 2:1-4 on YouVersion (opens in a new tab)
• Philippians 2:5-8 on YouVersion (opens in a new tab)
• Hebrews 3:13 on YouVersion (opens in a new tab)
• Galatians 6:2 on YouVersion (opens in a new tab)
• John 13:34 on YouVersion (opens in a new tab)

Discussion questions

1. Pastor M'Lisa began with Colossians 3:23-24, emphasizing that our lives are not compartmentalized between 'spiritual' and 'work' or 'home' life. In what areas of your week is it most challenging to remember that you are 'working for the Lord rather than for people'?
2. Reflect on the story of Pastor M'Lisa and Pastor Kevin kayaking. She said unity required him to 'surrender his purpose of getting to the other side of the lake his way.' Where in a relationship—at home, work, or church—are you currently tempted to just 'do you, boo' instead of slowing down to get in sync with someone else?
3. The speaker offered a 'heart check' for our motives in serving: 'Is the only thing that I've ever offered to step into something that where I can get attention?' How does this question challenge your own approach to serving, both inside and outside the church?
4. Pastor M'Lisa contrasted her grandchildren cheering each other on with their desire to be seen as 'better than' their cousins. When do you find it easiest to celebrate others, and when does a competitive spirit tend to show up in your heart?
5. Pastor M'Lisa shared powerfully about how 'la familia,' the family of God, carried her through a devastating tragedy. Why do you think the enemy works so hard to isolate us, and what is one practical step you can take this week to fight against isolation in your own life or in the life of someone you know?
6. We are called to 'make allowance for each other's faults' (Ephesians 4:2). When is it most difficult for you to love someone who is frustrating you, and how does remembering God's grace toward you change your perspective?
7. Pastor M'Lisa said, 'Unity means that tension will not get the final word.' Can you share about a time when you and another believer worked through tension to preserve unity? What did you learn from that experience?
8. The final challenge was to ask someone in your home, 'How can I be better for you this week?' What feels exciting or intimidating about asking that question?

Key takeaways

• My life isn't compartmentalized; whatever I do, I'm working for the Lord.
• Unity begins when my heart is surrendered to Jesus, not when everyone agrees with me.
• Instead of competing for attention, God calls me to celebrate and encourage others.
• The enemy wants to isolate me, but God designed me for the strength of community.
• Thinking of others as better than myself doesn't mean thinking less of myself; it means thinking of myself less.
• My love for other believers is the primary way the world will know I am a disciple of Jesus.

Life application

This week, choose one person in your home—a spouse, parent, child, or sibling—and have a specific conversation with them. Humbly ask them the question, 'How can I be better for you this week?' Listen without defending yourself, and then pray for God's help to love them well by acting on what they share.

Closing prayer

Lord Jesus, thank you for modeling perfect humility and love. Give us the courage this week to ask how we can be better for the people you have placed in our lives. Grant us the grace to listen well and the strength to follow through with love. We surrender our preferences and our pride, asking you to build a deeper unity in our homes and in our church that brings glory to you. In Jesus' name, Amen.