Joy Defined
January 1, 2023
Joy is a difficult word to define. Most people associate it with happiness, but the Bible clearly teaches that joy is not an emotion. Joy does not depend on our circumstances but is rather a choice. In fact, the most repeated command in the Bible is to “rejoice!” But how can we obey that command in a world filled with so much pain and brokenness? Join us on New Year’s Day as Pastor Gary explores the b iblical definition of joy.
Joy Defined
Joy is the fruit of the ________ ____________ produced in us when we ______________ to __________ __________________ with the faith to believe
that God will use our circumstances to accomplish His work in and
through our lives.
- Joy is a ________. (Galatians 5:21-22 & John 15:11)
- Joy is a ________________. (Philippians 4:11-13 & Romans 8:28)
- Joy is a ______________. (Psalms, Philippians, and MANY more!!)
Practice
____________ ______ this week.
Daily Readings
This week’s scripture readings focus on joy. As you read, ask the Holy Spirit to fill you with the joy only He can give, and make a commitment to choose joy every day this week.
- Day 1: Philippians 1 & 2
- Day 2: Philippians 3 & 4
- Day 3: Habakkuk 3
- Day 4: James 1
- Day 5: 1 Thessalonians 5
- Day 6: Psalm 66
Think Deeper
- Who is the most joyful person you’ve ever known? What made them this way?
- When was the last time you felt true joy?
- What is the most joyless aspect of your life? How can you rejoice in that situation?
Suggested Resources
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
The Weight of Glory by C.S. Lewis
The Book of Joy by the Dalai Lama Rev. Desmond Tutu and Douglas Abrams
Check out these and other suggested books at https: //bit.ly/AspireSMB