EXPERIENCING MORE JOY & PEACE

“Being Joy-FULL”
Pastor Doug Heisel – December 4, 2022

Philippians 3:1 — Finally my brothers and sisters, be full of JOY in the Lord.

Why Biblical Joy Is Such A Big Deal

1. Joy is an expression of FAITH that honors God for His grace, help and blessings in my life.
   
   1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 — Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
   

2. Joy is a CHOICE that looks for what God is up to.
   
   James 1:2-4 — Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
   

3. Joy is a CHARACTER quality that the Holy Spirit wants to produce more of in me, that blesses me, and reflects more of Him to others.
   
   Galatians 5:22-23 — But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
   

4. Joy produces more STRENGTH and RESILIENCY when heaviness, fatigue, or grief have set in.
   
   Nehemiah 8:10 — This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.
   
   Therefore, joy is a HOLY OPTIMISM that enables me to live, serve, and reflect Jesus in positive and productive ways, no matter the circumstances.
   
   Philippians 3:1 — Finally my brothers and sisters, be full of JOY in the Lord.