Sometimes in church, we emphasize spiritual activities like praying in tongues for long hours. While that is powerful, we often overlook something God says is even more important. The Bible clearly tells us, "...that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you..." (1 Corinthians 1:10). This instruction is even more important than speaking in tongues for ten hours. Why? Because even if you speak in tongues all day, no one knows what you are saying unless it is interpreted.

Unity is so important. We must settle unity before we pray in tongues. The Bible says that there be no divisions among us (1 Corinthians 1:10), yet oftentimes, there are. That is why I take this scripture very seriously—because Jesus, the Head of the Church, knows how the church functions best—and the church functions best in unity.

Yet unity is one of the most neglected virtues in the church. For instance, you may see two leaders who refuse to speak to each other for six months. Or leaders who are unhappy with the pastor for a whole year. Why? Because they have not taken this scripture to heart.

This doesn't mean we will never be offended. We are not perfect. But let me tell you something—church is a place where you must be ready to bear with others. If you can't handle offences, you won't last in church. Think about it: the Gospel itself doesn't make sense to the natural mind. The virgin birth doesn't make sense. The resurrection doesn't make sense. The ascension doesn't make sense. Even "...Christ in you, the hope of glory." (Colossians 1:27) — how did He come in? It doesn't make sense.

So, if someone offends you in church, bear with them. We are a family—even when things don't make sense. Someone younger than you may insult you, it's possible. You must give room for people's mistakes. People will disappoint you. The church may even disappoint you. You might serve faithfully for years, but on your special day—like your birthday—no one, not even the pastor, may call you.

There are two sides to this. On one hand, they didn't do well. On the other hand, it could be a test of your character. The Bible says, "If thou faint in the day of adversity, Thy strength is small" (Proverbs 24:10). God tests our hearts. The real question is: what will you do when you are disappointed? Will you walk in love, or will you take offence?

Use such moments to prove that the love of God is strong in you. The Bible says, "forbearing one another, and forgiving one another... even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye" (Colossians 3:13). That's the way to live. It's not the day to conclude that the church doesn't care. No—you are wrong. Give allowance for such things. Your love will be tested, don't fail in that area. Don't fail the unity test.