It’s Time for God’s Joy
Hebrews 12:1-4
I.Joy does not come from worshiping the false gods of comfort, money, pleasure and things.
A.Many people have equated God’s will and purpose with the will and purpose of false gods. This misconception has caused them to become discouraged and to discontinue living for God.
B.Maybe life got complicated and some of us got off track.
C.In 2020, it’s time to move forward from depression, rejection and pain.
II.Joy comes when I choose it. (Proverbs 11:27)
A.When we filter information through past mistakes, rejection and pain, we have a hard time seeing and believing in God’s goodness.
B.We build walls to protect our hearts and then realize the walls have
become a prison.
C.We must be careful not to feel like a victim. This mentality blames something or someone else for where they are and will keep a person in a cycle. Accept what has happened, own your part if need be, but regardless we must learn to be okay no matter who’s at fault.
III.Chose the joy of the Lord, REJOICE! (Philippians 4:4)
A.Joy is the settled assurance that God is in control. (Romans 8:28)
B.Joy is knowing God and knowing that He has a plan for our lives. Therefore:
1.Choose a great attitude.
2.Choose to always believe the best.
3.Choose to see what is right.
4.Choose to be optimistic. Say, “Yes I can!”
5.Choose to win. Be encouraging and positive.
6.Choose responsibility and stand with strength.
IV.Choose to look beyond what happened and use past situations to make a better future. (Philippians 1:12-14,18,22)
A.What has happened has worked for the best. (Philippians 1:12)
B.What has happened has brought new opportunity.
(Philippians 1:13-14)
C.God makes even the false things, or other people’s issues to work out for my good. (Philippians 1:18)
D.Even if I die it is still gain. (Philippians 1:22)
