Rejoice for Faithful Brothers and Sisters In Christ

"For I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the truth that is in you, just as you walk in the truth" (3 John 3).

One cannot be faithful without walking in God's truth. Certainly, we should rejoice over those who walk in the truth. We should encourage and pray for these to continue in faithfulness.

"I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy" (Philippians 1:3-4).

Read the four chapters of Philippians, and you will see the joy Paul had for the faithful brethren in Philippi.

"Therefore, my beloved and longed-for brethren, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, beloved" (Philippians 4:1).

These faithful brethren were Paul's joy and crown, his prize, in the figurative sense. He was encouraging them to stand fast in the Lord, which would bring even more joy. Just as Paul felt great joy, so also should we feel great joy over Christians who are like-minded and are striving to be of one accord, walking in God's truth.

"For though I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ" (Colossians 2:5).

"For what thanks can we render to God for you, for all the joy with which we rejoice for your sake before our God, night and day praying exceedingly that we may see your face and perfect what is lacking in your faith" (1 Thessalonians 3:9-10).

"Not that we have dominion over your faith, but are fellow workers for your joy; for by faith you stand" (2 Corinthians 1:24).

This same rejoicing was felt for the faithful Christians in other places. What a great example this should be for Christians today.

Let's always rejoice and encourage faithful brethren who are walking in the truth!