[PC-USA] 2002-12-22 - Joy

Advent Passages, Part 3

Joy is a Christmas theme that we often see and hear in cards, carols and sermons - from the "Joy to all people" in the Nativity narrative, to the often-memorized song "Joy to the World." Joy is one of God's gifts via His Holy Spirit. As usual, God's idea of joy differs from that of the world. Joy isn't about things always going your way. Joy is something we can possess, no matter what is happening around us. Joy isn't about external circumstances; it's about the heart. Today we will read passages about joy.

Galations 5:22-23 (NASB)  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

Luke 2:9-11 (NASB) And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terribly frightened.  But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people. For today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord."

John 16:23-25 (NASB) In that day you will not question Me about anything. Truly, truly, I say to you, if you ask the Father for anything in My name, He will give it to you. Until now you have asked for nothing in My name. Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be made full. These things I have spoken to you in figurative language, an hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figurative language, but will tell you plainly of the Father.

James 1:1-3 (NASB) Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.

Proverbs 12: 20 (NASB) Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, but counselors of peace have joy.

2 John 1:12 (NASB) Though I have many things to write to you, I do not want to do so with paper and ink; but I hope to come to you and speak face to face, so that your joy may be made full.

Jan

[email jan] jan@cfdevotionals.org
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