LifePointe Christian Church

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Third advent candle (The Shepherd Candle): Joy

Joy: Gladness, delight and contentment in the Lord

Joy: Fruit of the Spirit that it is a byproduct of the Holy Spirit living in us

Joy: Choosing to respond to external circumstances with inner contentment and satisfaction

“Christian joy is a good feeling in the soul, produced by the Holy Spirit, as he causes us to see the beauty of Christ in the word and in the world.” - John Piper

“Joy is the settled assurance that God is in control of all the details of my life, the quiet confidence that ultimately everything is going to be alright, and the determined choice to praise God in every situation.” - Rick Warren

HOW CAN WE EXPERIENCE JOY THIS CHRISTMAS: Do not be afraid

Fear robs us of our joy

Luke 2:10 The angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy... 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God............ 20 The shepherds went back to their flocks, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen. It was just as the angel had told them.

HOW CAN WE EXPERIENCE JOY THIS CHRISTMAS: Glorify and praise God

Having the joy of the Lord is a powerful way to spread the Good News about Jesus

A powerful testimony: Joyfully rejoice in the midst of adversity

Paul and Silas in prison (Acts 16)

Acts 16:25 The other prisoners were listening.

CAUSE OF OUR JOY (The reason we can can have joy)

THE REASON WE CAN HAVE JOY: We have a Savior

He is the payment (the propitiation) for our sins.

THE REASON WE CAN HAVE JOY: We have a Christ

Christmas is an annual reminder that God keeps His promises

Matthew 28:20 (Jesus will never leave us)

John 14:27 (Jesus gives us His peace)

Philippians 4:6-7 (Peace of God guards our hearts and minds)

Matthew 11:28-29 (Jesus will give us rest)

This joy is for TODAY

THE REASON WE CAN HAVE JOY: We have a Lord

Lord: A term addressing royalty (Master)

After our present trial(s), another one is waiting

Paul didn’t say to “rejoice in your circumstances", but to “rejoice in the Lord”