Message: “Why Are You Not Joyful” from Pastor Joe

Why Aren’t You Joyful Lesson Objective:  To understand the pursuit of happiness is not necessary. Scripture:  1 Thessalonians 5:16-18; Galatians 5: 22-23 Introduction: One of the greatest tragedies in this world is the number of people who go throughout life without knowing (feeling) the thrill of joy. Happiness Definition-  external, materialistic, fleeting, worldly pleasures-  can  be easily defined Joy Definition- internal, cannot be easily explained, an extension of happiness. Romans 15: 13  May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit 1 Peter 1: 8 Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy Analyze scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18  16 Rejoice evermore. JOY - CHARA. Joy (chara) (and rejoice) is Greek noun which describes a feeling of inner gladness, delight or rejoicing 17 Pray without ceasing. Luke 18: 1 And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart. John 16: 24  Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full. 18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Phil 4:12  I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. Hebrews 13: 5 Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” Psalm 107:1 "Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!" Summary Suggest that we stop looking for happiness and seek joy Pursuit of Happiness by definition means that one has to actively do something to find happiness Steps to seeking Joy Stop looking at what others have Stop comparing ourselves with others Stop seeking instant gratification Stop using the world’s definition of success to measure what we think of ourself Stop allowing others to get in the way of your joy Vacation Bible School School Song I got the Joy Joy Joy Joy down in my heart Where!!! Down in my heart to stay Old Spiritual This JOY I have the world didn’t give it to me The world did’t give it the world can’t take it away       , “If you can’t be happy where you are, it’s a cinch you can’t be happy where you ain’t”…  Charlie Tremendous    

Scripture References: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

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From Series: "Sunday Service"

These are the regularly scheduled Sunday lessons