Choosing Joy: Embracing the Gift of Salvation

 

Summary

In today's gathering, we explored the profound theme of joy, particularly as it relates to the fruit of the Spirit. We began by acknowledging the importance of prayer and fasting in breaking the chains of bondage and enabling us to live in the freedom that Christ offers. This freedom is not just about being forgiven but truly living free from the strongholds that can entangle us. As we continue our 21 days of prayer, we are reminded of the power of community and the importance of seeking God together.

We delved into Galatians 5, where the fruit of the Spirit is outlined, emphasizing that love, joy, and peace are not mere extras but essential elements of a Christian life. Joy, in particular, is a gift from God, not something we can manufacture on our own. It is a joy that surpasses the temporary happiness offered by worldly experiences, like a day at Disney World, and is rooted in the eternal joy found in Christ.

We discussed the joy of salvation, a joy that is secure and cannot be taken away by the world. This joy is not just for us to keep but to share with others, as we are called to be witnesses of Christ's love and salvation. The joy of soul-winning is unparalleled, as heaven rejoices over every sinner who repents. We are reminded that our lives should reflect this joy, drawing others to the hope and peace we have in Jesus.

Furthermore, we explored the joy of service, sharing, and even suffering, as these are opportunities to experience God's presence and strength in our lives. The joy of the Lord is our strength, and it is through surrendering to Him that we find true fulfillment and purpose. As we anticipate Christ's return, we are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, knowing that our future is secure in Him.

In closing, we are encouraged to choose joy daily, to be intentional about our attitudes and the company we keep. Joy is not found in circumstances but in the presence of God. As we continue to seek Him, may our lives be a testament to the joy that only He can provide.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Joy of Salvation: Salvation is a gift from God, not something we earn. It brings a joy that is secure and eternal, reminding us that life is meant to be enjoyed, not just endured. This joy is rooted in the assurance that our sins are forgiven and our names are written in heaven. [47:47]

2. Choosing Joy Daily: Joy is a choice we make every day. It requires intentionality in our thoughts, actions, and the company we keep. By choosing joy, we align ourselves with God's presence, allowing His joy to overflow in our lives. [42:15]

3. The Joy of Soul-Winning: There is immense joy in leading others to Christ. As we share the gospel and see lives transformed, we participate in the heavenly celebration over each sinner who repents. This joy fuels our mission to reach others with the love of Jesus. [57:54]

4. Joy in Suffering and Service: Even in trials, we can find joy by focusing on Christ, who endured the cross for the joy set before Him. Serving others with humility and love brings joy, as we reflect Christ's character and fulfill our purpose in His kingdom. [01:10:14]

5. The Joy of Surrender: True joy comes from surrendering our lives to Jesus, allowing Him to be Lord over every area. In surrender, we receive His fullness of joy, experiencing the peace and purpose that only He can provide. [01:12:49]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [36:23] - Introduction to 21 Days of Prayer
- [39:27] - The Essential Nature of Joy
- [41:07] - Joy as a Gift from God
- [42:15] - Choosing Joy Daily
- [43:05] - Influence of Our Surroundings
- [44:12] - Joy in Our Interactions
- [45:07] - The Joy of Salvation
- [47:47] - Joy in the Holy Spirit
- [48:28] - The Joy of Security
- [50:45] - The Joy of Sanctification
- [52:18] - Overcoming the Joy Killers
- [55:00] - Finding Joy in the Right Places
- [57:54] - The Joy of Soul-Winning
- [01:10:14] - Joy in Suffering and Service
- [01:12:49] - The Joy of Surrender

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: The Joy of the Spirit

Bible Reading:
1. Galatians 5:22-23
2. John 15:11
3. Luke 15:7

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Observation Questions:

1. According to Galatians 5, what are the fruits of the Spirit, and how is joy described among them? [36:23]

2. In John 15:11, what does Jesus say about His joy and its purpose for believers? [41:07]

3. How does the sermon describe the difference between worldly happiness and the joy found in Christ? [39:27]

4. What example from the sermon illustrates the joy of soul-winning, and how is it connected to Luke 15:7? [57:54]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the concept of choosing joy daily, as mentioned in the sermon, align with the teachings of Galatians 5:22-23? [42:15]

2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that joy is a gift from God rather than something we can create ourselves? [41:07]

3. How does the joy of salvation, as discussed in the sermon, provide a foundation for a believer's life? [47:47]

4. What does the sermon imply about the relationship between joy and suffering, and how can this be understood in light of biblical teachings? [01:10:14]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on a time when you experienced joy in your spiritual journey. How did it differ from temporary happiness? How can you seek more of this joy in your daily life? [39:27]

2. The sermon emphasizes choosing joy daily. What practical steps can you take to intentionally choose joy, especially on challenging days? [42:15]

3. Consider the people you interact with regularly. How can you be a source of joy and encouragement to them, reflecting the joy of the Spirit? [43:05]

4. The joy of soul-winning is highlighted in the sermon. Identify one person in your life who might be open to hearing about your faith. How can you share the joy of salvation with them this week? [57:54]

5. Reflect on a recent trial or challenge you faced. How can you find joy in such situations by focusing on Christ, as suggested in the sermon? [01:10:14]

6. The sermon mentions the joy of service. What is one way you can serve others this week, and how might this bring joy to both you and those you serve? [01:07:01]

7. As you anticipate Christ's return, how can you cultivate an inexpressible and glorious joy in your life, knowing your future is secure in Him? [01:11:38]

Devotional

Day 1: The Joy of Salvation
Salvation is a profound gift from God, offering a joy that is both secure and eternal. This joy is not something that can be earned through human effort but is freely given through the grace of God. It assures believers that their sins are forgiven and their names are written in heaven, providing a foundation for a life that is meant to be enjoyed, not merely endured. This joy is a constant reminder of the hope and assurance found in Christ, transcending the temporary happiness that the world offers. As believers, this joy should be shared with others, reflecting the transformative power of salvation in our lives. [47:47]

"Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls." (1 Peter 1:8-9, ESV)

Reflection: Think of a moment when you felt the joy of your salvation. How can you share that joy with someone who needs to hear about the hope found in Christ today?


Day 2: Choosing Joy Daily
Joy is a deliberate choice that believers must make every day. It requires intentionality in thoughts, actions, and the company one keeps. By choosing joy, individuals align themselves with God's presence, allowing His joy to overflow in their lives. This choice is not dependent on circumstances but is rooted in the eternal joy found in Christ. As believers cultivate this joy, they become beacons of hope and peace to those around them, drawing others to the love of Jesus. [42:15]

"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand." (Philippians 4:4-5, ESV)

Reflection: What is one practical step you can take today to choose joy, regardless of your current circumstances?


Day 3: The Joy of Soul-Winning
There is immense joy in leading others to Christ and witnessing the transformation in their lives. As believers share the gospel, they participate in the heavenly celebration over each sinner who repents. This joy fuels the mission to reach others with the love of Jesus, reminding believers of the eternal impact of their witness. The joy of soul-winning is unparalleled, as it reflects the heart of God and His desire for all to come to repentance. [57:54]

"Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy! He who goes out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, bringing his sheaves with him." (Psalm 126:5-6, ESV)

Reflection: Who is someone in your life that you can share the gospel with this week? How can you prepare your heart to be a witness of Christ's love to them?


Day 4: Joy in Suffering and Service
Even in trials, believers can find joy by focusing on Christ, who endured the cross for the joy set before Him. Serving others with humility and love brings joy, as it reflects Christ's character and fulfills one's purpose in His kingdom. This joy is not dependent on external circumstances but is found in the presence of God, who provides strength and comfort in times of suffering. As believers serve others, they experience the joy of being used by God to make a difference in the world. [01:10:14]

"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness." (James 1:2-3, ESV)

Reflection: How can you find joy in serving others this week, even if it requires sacrifice or discomfort?


Day 5: The Joy of Surrender
True joy comes from surrendering one's life to Jesus, allowing Him to be Lord over every area. In surrender, believers receive His fullness of joy, experiencing the peace and purpose that only He can provide. This joy is not found in holding onto control but in trusting God with every aspect of life. As believers surrender to Him, they discover the freedom and fulfillment that comes from living in alignment with His will. [01:12:49]

"And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit." (Galatians 5:24-25, ESV)

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you find yourself holding back from surrendering to Jesus? What would surrendering this area to Him actually look like in terms of daily habits?

Quotes



And I just want you to know that a gift can be yours, but unless you redeem it, unless you receive it, unless you use it, you never get the benefit of it. God gives us the gift of joy. Joy. But so many people are not redeeming that gift. In fact, every morning, you've got to wake up and you've got to choose joy. [00:41:52] (23 seconds)


It's one of the values of our church. We love God and we love people. That's the great commandment. The next one is we pursue excellence. Whatever you do, you do all for the glory of God. Do the very best that you can for him. And then number four, we choose joy. Whatever you do, do it with joy. Now, joy is not going to come by accident. It's going to be intentional. I said every day. You've got two choices. [00:42:57] (24 seconds)


The Bible says it like this. Where your treasure is, that's where your heart's going to be. So even in giving, you don't give because you feel like it. You give because you know that's what God asked us to do. And guess what? The feeling follows. Then your heart will be there also. Are y 'all getting anything out of this sermon? One of my favorite stories is about two little boys. They were fighting on the playground. A little girl saw them and ran to the teacher and said, Teacher, teacher. Come quick. They're two boys fighting on the playground. [00:43:41] (27 seconds)


And this is not a Charles Stanley sermon, but he was the only man I ever knew who could do this. He could preach 10 points in one sermon. And I'm going to do it today. All right? Old school. You ready? Saddle up. Here we go. Number one, the joy of salvation. The joy of salvation. Just make a note of all these scriptures. Luke 10, verse 17. The 72 returned with joy and said, Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name. Jesus said, do not rejoice that the demons, the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written where? In heaven. Salvation is all of God. Salvation is not of us. It's the fruit of the spirit. The fruit of the spirit's not of us. The fruit of the spirit's all of God. And I'm telling you, we do not have a faith that is spelled D -O. You got to do this and you've got to do that. You got to do this and you've got to do that. No, it's not spelled D -O. It's spelled D -O -N -E. Done. It's finished. Jesus did for us what we could not do for ourselves. Look at what they say about salvation in heaven. Revelation 7, 10. And they cry out in a loud voice. Everybody say it. Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne and to the Lamb. So salvation is all of God. And I want you to know because it's all of Him, just like He gives you salvation, He gives you joy. [00:45:31] (90 seconds)


He gave us marriage not to be endured but to be enjoyed. He gave us our kids not to be endured but to be enjoyed. He gave you your job and your health and your work and everything about your life. Listen, because of Him, you don't just endure it, you're to enjoy it. Look at Hebrews chapter 12, verse 22. But you have come to Mount Zion to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly. How is the assembly of heaven described? Joyful. So what should the assembly of God's people, the living God, be like on earth? [00:47:08] (39 seconds)


Number two, the joy of security. The joy of security. Psalm 1611 says this, You make known to me the path of life. You will fill me with... With joy in your presence. There's joy in the presence of God. And it's with eternal pleasures. Not temporary. Eternal. At your right hand. He not only saved us, but I want you to know, we are saved and secure in Him. Look at Isaiah 61 .3. To console those who mourn in Zion. To give them beauty for ashes. The oil of joy for mourning. Garments of praise for a spirit of heaviness. Now look at this. [00:49:21] (44 seconds)


The world didn't give it to me, and the world can't take it away. Listen, I didn't do anything to get it. I can't do anything to lose my salvation. I don't have a hope so, salvation. Or a maybe so, salvation. No, 1 John 5. We studied it when we went through 1 John. 1 John 5 says we have a know so, salvation. [00:50:22] (24 seconds)


Now, I just told you that the devil can't take away your salvation. Oh, but he wants to rob you of your joy. The devil doesn't want you to have joy, and here's why. The joy of the Lord's your strength. And even if you're not a Christian, if he can rob you of your joy, then you're a weak Christian. Remember what David said in Psalm 51, 12, restore to me the joy of your salvation. This is after his sin. [00:51:19] (24 seconds)


Notice David, after his sin with Bathsheba, did not pray, Lord, restore unto me my salvation. He prayed what? Restore unto me the joy of your salvation. So again, we're reminded, it's not something we produce. It's a gift from God. Salvation's all of him, and so he who began a good work in us will continue to perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. Justification is a completed work. Completed. [00:51:44] (31 seconds)


And this, I'm just telling you, this is the strategy of the thief, the devil. He steals your understanding. He kills your joy. And if he can ever do that and get you to throw in the towel and quit, he will have destroyed God's purpose for your life. I'm just telling you, write this down. I want you to get this. [00:53:26] (22 seconds)


And that's what people do all the time. They're looking for joy in all the wrong places. And they think, oh, I just have so much joy. I'm so tired of my marriage. I'm so tired of my job. Oh, that job over there looks better. I'm telling you, that mate over there looks better. And you think if you can just get out of that fence that you're in, that joy's going to be somewhere. Joy's not out there. Joy's in Jesus. [00:55:26] (24 seconds)


And so I want you to understand there's a joy in soul winning. We were found to find others. Saved to save others. Reached to reach others. I tell you all the time, we're here for those that are not yet here. And there is no joy like seeing a baby born into a family. And there is no joy like seeing people come to Christ and be born into the family of God week after week after week in a church. [00:58:25] (23 seconds)


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Transcript
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