In Africa, when someone gets married, he marries the extended faimily as well. Uncles, aunts, nephews, cousins, grand parents, etc. are all part of the package. This often proves to be a nuisance, when these infringe on the good hospitality of the other. Great problems arise and often there is separation and divorce.

How different it is in Christ! We have a great family of brothers and sisters throughout this world. The Spirit of Christ in His children makes them sensitive to the needs of one another. Rather than a nuisance, it is an encouragement. How pleasant for God's people to dwell together in unity! Psalm 133:1 It does not mean that there are no problems. Yet, where there is offense, there is forgiveness (Ephesians 3:31,32). Where there is weakness, there is grace and understanding (Romans 14:1). Where some fall, there is a desire to restore (Galatians 6:1,2). When we see one who begins to walk away from the truth, there is loving reprimand Jude 21-23.