Romans 12:15 is a collection of 10 beautiful words: “Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.”
 
When we live out those words, we display a beautiful trait far too uncommon among many people: security.
 
You see, only secure people can be glad for someone else; only secure people can hurt with someone else. Truly, to live a life based around Philippians 2:3-4, where someone else’s needs are as important as your own, one must possess security. We have to be comfortable in our own skin, content with how God made us, has gifted and wired us, and what he has ordained to be part of our past and present.
 
The real question is, “How?” Well, whole books have been written on this subject, so this post can’t come close to answering that question in any substantial manner. But let me offer one small tip I’ve seen help many people take a good first step: Verbalize your shared praise or pain quickly.
 
In other words, when you’re with someone and they voice something you can “rejoice” over or something you should “weep” over, don’t hold back and give jealousy, judgment, or criticism a single second to take root. Obey those 10 words verbally and promptly, and “Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.” Exhibit the security to put their needs first, and identify right away with where they are. You’ll be surprised at the way relational distance dissipates and relational credibility rises when put those 10 beautiful words into action.