Joy is a gift from God!

I Thes 5:16—18 (ESV)
16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Philippians 4: 4-7 (NIRV)
4 Always be joyful because you belong to the Lord. I will say it again. Be joyful!

Happiness is a feeling, but Joy is a choice!

Psalm 119:110-112(NIV)
111 Your statutes are my heritage forever;
they are the joy of my heart.

1. Joy is here!
Luke 2: 8-20
10 And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.

2. Joy was sent!
Jesus represents the greatest Joy of all time

3. Joy is a journey
Psalm 30-4-5 (ESV)
5b: Weeping may tarry for the night,
but joy comes with the morning.
John 16:16-20 (ESV)
20b: You will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy.

4. Joy can be scary
Luke 2:28-35
35 Simeon blessed them but then said to Mary, “A sword shall pierce your soul, for this child shall be rejected by many in Israel, and this to their undoing. But he will be the greatest joy of many others. And the deepest thoughts of many hearts shall be revealed.”

5. Joy is a Choice
Luke 1:29-30 (ESV)
29 But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be. 30 And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.

Joy is dependent on Jesus Christ and his abiding presence in our life.
• First – Study his word. Psalm 119:14-16
• Second – Find delight in Him. Psalm 28:7
• Third – Trust God with your future. Romans 8:28
• Fourth – Trust god to be your Joy. 2 Cor:4-10
• Fifth – Trust God to turn your worst day into joy. Psalm 30:11-12