Christian Brotherhood: A Brother's Success Is Not Your Failure
What matters in our life in a community of brothers and sisters of God? When we think of it from a brother or sister standpoint, it's encouraging each other to grow in our faith, however that looks at that time.
When men meet together, it's extremely easy for the conversation to slip into meaninglessness. Sports, gossip, and other stuff tend to take over pretty quickly. I meet with a bunch of guys pretty regularly throughout the week, and for the most part, we stay on point—and the point is always what the Lord has done or is doing in our lives. It really is a blessing to be with like-minded brothers. This kind of Christian brotherhood is something we need.
In those meetings, it is important to create an atmosphere where people feel comfortable sharing something difficult or a blessing they are experiencing. Taking this seriously and respecting their vulnerability is extremely important. It can make a difference in how that brother shares these things from that point forward.
Show up, help carry the burden, let go of judgment, and anchor it all in prayer by interceding for them.
On the other side of that, we need to celebrate with them in the victories! Strangely enough, I see men struggling with this more than the other. When a brother has a win or crosses a Jordan, we maybe give a thumbs up. I'm sure some of it has to do with a man's competitive nature. The world has always promoted the idea of a "self-made man," and this can create a selfish attitude and make it difficult to experience joy for our brothers. Almost like the money, vehicle, or house they have was taken from a pool of blessings and now can't go to you.
We need a perspective change.
A win for a brother does not mean you are lacking. It's actually a win for the whole community and should be celebrated by the community. That's what Christian brotherhood should look like. Make a point to speak up. Be the trendsetter. Remember what the Lord truly cares about and celebrate that—the building of character, faith, discipline, and reliance on God for provision.
A brother's success is not your failure, and God's timeline for him is not God's timeline for you.
If you are struggling with jealousy over a specific brother's victory, bless him privately. Send him a text, buy him a coffee, or pray for his success to continue. Being generous removes envy.
Christian brotherhood isn't just about helping a brother when he falls. It's also about genuinely celebrating when God lifts him up.
What do you celebrate?
Romans 1:10-12
“One of the things I always pray for is the opportunity, God willing, to come at last to see you. For I long to visit you so I can bring you some spiritual gift that will help you grow strong in the Lord. When we get together, I want to encourage you in your faith, but I also want to be encouraged by yours."
