Romans 12:15 gives us two principles for dealing with the ups and downs in the lives of people. “Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.” (NASB)

On the surface, rejoicing with others who rejoice would seem easy enough. However, the temptation to engage in jealousy and resentment is often present when we hear about someone else’s good news, especially if their happiness and success comes at our expense, or their success and accomplishments make what we have accomplished look pale by comparison.

Finally, we need to be ready to enter into the pain, suffering, disappointment and various setbacks that others experience. We should be able to show sympathy and empathy for others; we must sometimes “weep with those who weep” because compassion in a believer is critical.

“And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it.” (1 Corinthians 12:26 NASB)

Having a compassionate heart reflects the Lord’s compassionate attitude.

Be Blessed,

Bishop Jemmott

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