stephen R Harrison

JOY 365: Day 6

Rejoice with those who rejoice… -Romans 12:15a

Today, our church staff had the joy of meeting with staff from three other churches. We took turns sharing what we are asking God to do in our churches this year. What a refreshing time! It gave me vision. Some were asking God to increase finances, build facilities, send teams on mission, baptize believers, and increase faith. Then we spent about 15 minutes praying for each church. I’ve learned God endears you to those with whom you pray. A phrase that stuck with me today was, “When you pray, you’re the most powerful person in the room”. It’s not because we are powerful, but because we pray to the One who is all-powerful. There have been times my prayers have seemed tremendously weak. However, I continue to believe, “The prayers of a righteous man are powerful and effective” (James 5:16). We are either people who pray or we aren’t!

In the flesh, it’s easy to criticize others and hard to rejoice with them. In step with the Spirit, it’s easy to rejoice with them and hard to criticize them. I want to be another church’s biggest cheerleader. Criticizing other churches is just jealousy disguised in religious garb. It’s also extremely selfish. Rejoicing with others in their wins is done by praying for them and thanking God for them. Romans 12:15 says, “Rejoice with those who rejoice.” God will not bless a critical, jealous, selfish spirit. Jesus, may I be a man who rejoices with others!

With whom are you celebrating? If you aren’t, why not?