This Week’s Message Notes (filled-in)

December 15, 2024

“God’s Gift of Joy”

God's Gifts for You This Christmas – part 3

“Always be joyful.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16

What keeps me from seeking joy as a possibility?

·       The bad that shouldn’t happen.

·       The good that doesn’t happen.

HOW DO I CHOOSE JOY?

1.  CHOOSE TO HEAR THE GOOD NEWS.

“but the angel reassured them. ‘Don’t be afraid!’ he said. ‘I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people.’” Luke 2:10

“For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the Jew first and also the Gentile.” Romans 1:16

“Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.” James 1:2-3

“You even had joy when all that you owned was taken from you, because you knew you had something better and more lasting.”  Hebrews 10:34 (NCV)

2.  CHOOSE TO DO WHAT GOD SAYS.

“When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, ‘Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.’” Luke 2:15

“The commandments of the Lord are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are clear, giving insight for living.” Psalm 19:8

“Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.” John 16:24 (NIV)

3.  CHOOSE TO TELL SOMEONE ELSE.

“After seeing him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child.” Luke 2:17

“Let them offer sacrifices to thank him. With joy they should tell what he has done.” Psalm 107:22

“In the same way, there is more joy in heaven over one lost sinner who repents and returns to God than over ninety-nine others who are righteous and haven’t strayed away!” Luke 15:7

“Those who plant in tears will harvest with shouts of joy.” Psalm 126:5

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” Philippians 4:4

 (Unless otherwise indicated, all scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation second edition, copyright 1996, 2004, 2007, 2013 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Message adapted from pastors.com