Rejoicing can be tough

I had never really noticed this verse before, at least not in the same way I did recently. "Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep" (Rom. 12:15). I think I have always thought something along these lines: Of course we rejoice when others are happy, and of course we weep, or at least show empathy, when others are sad. It seems so natural--most of the time.

Recently the Lord has brought me through a situation that has unveiled this verse for me. I'm seeing it in a new light--one in which I have realized that there are actually times when we are called to rejoice with others when their joy actually brings us pain.

During that time, God made this verse jump off the page at me: “Rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep.” I guess that’s the gist of the gospel. It’s not about us. It’s about everybody else. It’s not about me understanding. It’s about trusting God. It’s not about getting my way (whatever that happens to be at the moment); it’s about rejoicing in the midst of God’s good plans for all His children! “Rejoice with those who rejoice” instead of letting self-pity get in the way. As I’ve prayed for others, I’m more thankful for God's work in my particular situation. And, by God’s grace, I think—I hope—I am on the way to actually rejoicing with them. As a song says, “You give and take away for my good, for who am I to say what I need?”

Perhaps I should have waited until I “get it” to share this, but that would defeat one of the purposes of this blog--that of “preaching to myself.” As a teacher, I think I learn best when I share what I’m learning with others. It helps me process what I’m being taught. So, for what it's worth to anyone else, this is a lesson God is teaching me. Hopefully one of these days I will "get it." In the meantime, I sure am glad that He's not given up!