#40dayemphasis #devotionalreading

"Brethren dwelling together" refers primarily to Israel as the covenant people of God. In the ancient Near Eastern setting, family unity was essential for survival and identity. In the New Covenant, this extends to the unity of believers in Christ (John 17:21; Eph. 4:3).

As the community of God and the Body of Christ, there is nothing more essential than functioning in unity—difficulties and challenges notwithstanding. Unity and agreement in purpose are God’s design for Christ’s followers who comprise His church. To disregard it is self-defeating, counterproductive, and ultimately proof of rebellion against God.

"Running down" is repeated twice, emphasizing abundance. The blessing of unity flows from the “head” (leadership, covenant, and God Himself) down to the whole body (community).

• Unity as Sacred: Just as oil consecrated Aaron, unity consecrates the people of God as His dwelling place.

• Unity as Abundant: The “running down” imagery highlights that God’s blessings flow richly where there is oneness.

• Unity as Life–Giving: Like dew in a dry land, unity brings refreshment, fruitfulness, and hope.

• Unity as Eternal: God promises that His commanded blessing is not temporary but culminates in everlasting life with Him.

God is kind and merciful to all of us, but "commanded blessing" does not come upon individuals, but upon communities in Christ.

"I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, [b]beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, 2 with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, 3 endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all." (Ephesians 4:1-6)