Where is the Joy?

Introduction:

Make a list of the things that a person should experience because of a relationship with Jesus. What would you put on your list?

I.  Joy should be a basic reality in the Christian life.

A. Jesus would bring great joy – Lk. 2:8-14.

B. Jesus promised grief would turn to joy – John 16:20

1. See also Acts 2; 5:40-41; 8:38-41; Philippians 4:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:16

2. What was the source of this great joy? Jesus!

II. Christians can look at their past with thanksgiving & joy to God.

A. How is our perspective? Can we look back & see God at work in our lives?

1. Rom. 8:28

B. Paul could have concentrated on all that was bad.

1. But…chose not to look at that & took great joy in how God was there every time for Him.

C. Think of the negative situations you have faced in life:

1. What if we have to face those problems alone? Without God? Where would we be?

D. Truly, we can look at our past & rejoice. Remember happiness is a choice!

III. The Christian can look at his present circumstances and rejoice.

A. We can move forward in our lives w/extreme confidence in God.

1. Phil 2:12 - Our confidence is not so much in self as it should be in God!

B. God does not look for perfect people in whom to work. If He did, He would never work in anyone.

1. Rather…he looks for those who will allow Him to work in their lives.

C. God can work through us.

1. Through His word – Heb. 4:13

2. Through events in life – Js. 1:2-3

3. Through people – 2 Cor. 7:6

IV. Christians can look at their future and rejoice!

A. This is all contingent upon a healthy relationship with God!

B. Phil. 1:9-11

1. We must make a commitment to grow in love, knowledge, & discernment.

2. grow in Christian character

3. Grow in fruitful and productive lives.

C. To experience true joy – the focus must be taken off of self & turned on to God!

Conclusion:

A. How much joy exists in everyday life because of our faith in the resurrected Jesus?

B. Do you possess the joy that comes through Jesus?

C. I N V I T A T I O N