Christian joy is a good feeling in the soul, produced by the Holy Spirit, as he causes us to see the beauty of Christ in the word and in the world. – John Piper
“Father, command what you will and grant what you command.” – Augustine
Source of Joy is God!
Happiness v. Joy
Acts 14:17 ESV – Yet he did not leave himself without witness, for he did good by giving you rains from heaven and fruitful seasons, satisfying your hearts with food and gladness.
3 Ways to Experience Biblical Joy in Life
Sing It Out!
Psalm 71:22, 23 ESV – I will sing praises to you with the lyre, O Holy One of Israel. My lips will shout for joy, when I sing praises to you; my soul also, which you have redeemed.
Psalm 95:1 ESV – Oh come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!
Psalm 100:2 ESV – Serve the Lord with gladness. Come into his presence with singing.
Joy in Pain
James 1:2-4 ESV – Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
Hebrews 12:2, 3 ESV – Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow wear or faint-hearted.
Joy in the Lost Being Found
Luke 15:32 ESV – It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.
5 Ways to Sabotage Joy in Life
Comparing
Complaining
Competing
Controlling
Criticizing
