The Precious Gift of Unity

A Reflection on Psalm 133 for Crossroads Fellowship Pastors

“Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!”

—Psalm 133:1 (ESV)

Pastors, few things bring greater joy to the heart of God—or greater witness to the world—than unity among His people. Psalm 133 offers a glimpse into how God views unity, not as a bonus or luxury, but as something good, pleasant, sacred, and powerful.

David doesn’t just tell us unity is good. He illustrates this through two striking images that would have been immediately understood in his time, but may require a bit of cultural translation for us today.

The Precious Oil on Aaron’s Beard

“It is like the precious oil on the head,

running down on the beard,

on the beard of Aaron,

running down on the collar of his robes!”

—Psalm 133:2 (ESV)

This isn’t just any oil—it’s precious oil, the kind used to anoint Aaron as the first high priest of Israel (Exodus 29:7). That moment marked a turning point in Israel’s story. For the first time, the people had access to God through a consecrated mediator. The oil represented God’s choosing, His blessing, and His presence.

A replica of an ancient olive press. Photo by JB

But there’s more. The ancient rabbis and historians, such as Josephus, understood this oil to be made from the very first drops of olives, before the full pressing began. These drops were so rare that they occurred simply due to the weight of the press resting on the olives, before the first stone weight was applied. To collect enough to anoint Aaron’s head, let alone enough to run down his beard and soak his collar, was no small thing. It was costly. Valuable. Set apart.

That’s what unity is like—costly, intentional, sacred. Not accidental. Not cheap. When the people of God dwell in unity, it is as significant as the consecration of the high priest. It’s a sign that God is doing something holy in our midst.

The Dew of Hermon

“It is like the dew of Hermon,

which falls on the mountains of Zion!”

—Psalm 133:3a (ESV)

Mount Hermon, far to the north, was known for its heavy dew and lush greenery, even in dry seasons. Zion, by contrast, was hot and arid for much of the year. David envisions a miraculous scene: the life-giving dew of Hermon falling on Mount Zion. Two very different places, two very different climates—yet unified in blessing.

Unity brings the kind of unexpected refreshment that transforms barren places into gardens. When churches, leaders, and believers walk together in humility and love, we create the kind of spiritual climate where growth and blessing become possible, even in dry seasons.

Where God Commands the Blessing

“For there the LORD has commanded the blessing,

life forevermore.”

—Psalm 133:3b (ESV)

Where is there
It’s the place of unity. That’s where the Lord doesn’t just suggest blessing—He commands it. His favor, His life, and His presence are poured out in places where His people are one in heart and purpose.

Churches and fellowships that pursue this kind of unity experience something eternal. It’s not just better morale or smoother meetings. It’s life forevermore.

Three Steps for Promoting Unity in Your Church

1. Teach the value of unity as sacred, not optional. Regularly remind your people that unity is not merely about avoiding conflict—it’s about creating space for God to dwell among us. Teach Psalm 133. Teach John 17. Elevate unity as part of discipleship.

2. Model humility and honor in leadership. Unity flows from the top down, just like Aaron’s oil. Be a leader who listens well, repents when necessary, and honors others publicly. Celebrate the contributions of others. Avoid gossip, triangulation, or silos within leadership.

3. Create intentional rhythms that bring people together. Unity needs time and proximity. Organize intergenerational gatherings, prayer nights, leadership retreats, or even shared mission projects. Get people around the table—meals, conversations, and shared experiences are where hearts soften and unity grows.

Brothers, as we serve churches across Indiana—rural and urban, large and small—may we never forget the treasure that unity is. It is like the precious oil. It is like the refreshing dew. And it is where God commands His blessing.

Let’s be pastors who pursue that kind of unity, for His glory and for the good of His Church. Jesus taught the importance of unity, and in Ephesians, his teaching is restated by Paul like this: "Therefore I, the prisoner in the Lord, urge you to walk worthy of the calling you have received, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, making every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Ephesians 4:1-3 (emphasis added)