Living Free Every Day®
A ministry of LivingFree.org

Today's Scripture
"Rejoice with those who rejoice [sharing others' joy], and weep with those who weep [sharing others' grief]." Romans 12:15 AMP

Thoughts for Today
Today's scripture shows us another way to love one another. It's called sharing. Sharing joy. Rejoicing with those who rejoice. Sharing grief. Weeping with those who weep.

Rejoice with those who rejoice . . .

"They just told me I am being promoted to that empty position!" John, your co-worker and fellow church member, excitedly reports.

How do you respond?

I wanted that position. It's just not fair. I put in more hours every week than John does, and I know I could do a better job. "Congratulations."

I'm so glad for him. I wanted the promotion myself, but I trust God's plan. "John, that's wonderful, brother! Let me know if there is ever anything I can do to help! Let's go out to dinner tonight to celebrate!"

Weep with those who weep . . .

A friend tells you about a problem she is experiencing. You are going through some problems yourself and somehow her problem seems trivial compared with yours. Are you able to set your own troubles aside for a moment to really listen to your friend? To share her pain? Or do you respond with a "That's too bad but you should hear what I'm doing through" attitude?

Consider this …
As parents, we get excited about our children's victories. We are quick to rejoice with them. How much more our heavenly Father must rejoice over our victories in life. Because he loves us. We need to show that same kind of love to others.

Jesus could look at the problems we bring to him as trivial. But he doesn't. His Word assures us that he cares about everything that concerns us. Why? Because he loves us. How can we do less for others?

Prayer
Father, forgive me for all the times I've been self-centered. Too selfish to truly share others' joys and sorrows. Too busy. Too caught up in my own life. I thank you that you are never too busy for me. I thank you that you care about everything that concerns me. Help me do that for others. In Jesus' name …

These thoughts were drawn from …

Understanding Depression: Overcoming Despair through Christ by Donald G. Miles, Ed.D. This study deals with depression, a condition common throughout the world, and is suggested for use in support groups and Christian counseling.

• Understanding what depression is and how it affects relationships
• Understanding the relationship between depression and spiritual warfare
• Ways to fight depression with scripture, prayer and mutual support
• Understanding the special prayer needs of depressed persons
• How to pray for healing and what to expect
• Serves as a powerful evangelistic tool by providing a way to minister to people's felt needs and then lead them to Christ

Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.

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