14 “Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. 17 Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. 18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. 19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” 20 To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:14–21 (ESV)
One way to handle conflict at work, along with following proper established protocol by the company or institution for which you work, is to follow the guidelines set forth in Romans 12:14-21. While these commands and encouragements are applicable for the home, personal relationships, church and when engaging the public, they contain practical wisdom for the work place.
Today, we examine Romans 12:15. The text says, “Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.” Let’s unpack the verse.
The word rejoice (χαίρω; chairo) is in the present, active, infinitive form. This means that a believer in Christ is to continually, actively, and infinitely be glad and be delighted. However, in what context does the Apostle Paul use the word rejoice?
The text continues to say, ““Rejoice with those who rejoice.” The encouragement to the Christian is to be glad and delighted solely with those who are presently and actively glad and delighted.
Additionally, the text further states, “weep with those who weep.” The word weep (κλαίω; klaio) means, in its present, active and infinitive form in this verse, to lament and to mourn with those who are in a condition of lamenting and crying.
Dr. John Walvoord writes , “Paul’s exhortations in this section relate to a believer’s reactions to the actions and emotions of others, whether Christians or not. Christians should be able to empathize with others, both believers and unbelievers.”
This empathy should not be when times are good for other people, but also when times are bad. Have you known a co-worker who experienced a great moment of joy? Perhaps the birth of a child or grandchild. Take the opportunity to rejoice with them in the midst of their joy.
However, make sure to also take the opportunity to mourn with them when they experience a great loss. For example, the death of a loved one. Let that co-worker know that you care.
It has often been said that people really do not care how much you know about the Bible, until they know how much you care about them. Rejoicing and weeping with other people, including co-workers, lets them know how much you care.
Have a blessed day of ministry at work.
Soli deo Gloria!
His Word Today 