Sharing the Joy


Bible Reading: Romans 12:9-21

We may think our culture is not as hospitable as it could be towards Christians. We see many reasons to be grateful to God, compared to the early church’s trials.

Paul delivers a clear message to the church in Rome. He encourages them to rejoice with those who rejoice (Romans 12:15a), as he did with the Christians in Philippi.

There is something beautiful when we celebrate the victory of others. It is hard in such a competitive world. Envy seems to reign around us. It is for such reason that we must learn to celebrate when something good happening to someone else.

Paul is not saying we should only rejoice when things are going well for us, but it says we should rejoice when it goes well for others, even if things are not going as well as we want for ourselves.

I had the experience to rejoice with others when my life felt it was falling apart. It did not come easy. However, I felt the transforming power rejoicing with those that rejoice. Doing so, we recognise God’s goodness, not only for us but for others. We release our frustration and are empowered to begin to see God’s grace in the world.

Take a moment to write at least three things that you are grateful to God, but it has happened to someone else. Then, talk to God about how you felt when you did it. You may want to share the difficulties that you have found doing this spiritual exercise.

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