June 07

Finding Deeper Joy in Others


So then, let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up.

Romans 14:19 (NLT)


We should please others. If we do what helps them, we will build them up in the Lord. … Remember that Christ came as a servant … So I pray that God, who gives you hope, will keep you happy and full of peace as you believe in him. May you overflow with hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Romans 15:2,8,13 (NLT)


The Lord his changing my spiritual focus from one of concern for my own growth and well-being to that of others, and as He does, I’m beginning to understand the Apostle Paul’s heart.

Sure, I want to continue to grow in Christ—He is everything! But, more and more, I want to see others develop and mature, find peace and hope, and come to know His deeper joy.

My hope is for my children, for those I relate to in small groups, and for new converts. Oh, how my heart goes out to them! I have no greater joy than to pray for them and see God answer those prayers in positive ways. This was Paul’s deeper joy and now it is becoming mine.


Lord, help us to encourage one another and grow in Christ together. Amen.