“Remaining Full of Joy” (Part I)

Date: 9/28/2011
Speaker: Pastor Johnny Moore

 

Jesus Christ, the Bible says, was a “man of sorrows and acquainted with grief.” Yet, he possessed a deep “joy” that was beyond anything the world would understand or offer. As He faced the cruel death at Calvary, Jesus said to His followers, “These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full” (John 15:11). God desires for His children to remain full of joy.

     Sometimes the words “happy” and “joy” are used interchangeably. However, it is important that we understand that these two words have different definitions. The word “happy” means “cheerfulness, laughter or glee, based on present circumstances.” The word “joy” means “to replace or be glad with excitement because of the acquisition or expectation of good.” You see, happiness is great and we all desire to have it, but when the circumstances of our life change, our happiness seems to go down the drain. But “joy,” because it is based on Jesus Christ, who is “the same yesterday, today and forever,” can be experienced everyday of our lives. Satan loves to use circumstances to rob us of our joy, for when our joy is gone, so is our strength. Nehemiah 8:10 says, “...For the joy of the Lord is our strength.” So, the question arises, “How then can we hold on to, and remain full of joy?”

#1—I Must Declare That “It is God’s Will for Me to Have Great Joy”: Scripture references: John 15:11, “These things have I spoken that my joy might remain in you and that your joy might be full.” John 16:24, “Until now you have asked nothing in my name; ask and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.”

#2—I Must Believe That Jesus Has Already Overcome Every Problem In My Life: Scripture references: John 16:33, “These things have I spoken unto you, that in me, ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” In other words, Jesus said, “Cheer up!” I have already overcome every problem in your life!” I John 3:8, “… For this purpose was the son of God manifested; that He might destroy the works of the devil.’ It is God’s will for every child of God to possess the joy of the Lord! Say this out loud right now … “It is God’s will for me to have great joy!” When you believe that God has already overcome every problem you have, you will then discover that your present circumstances are not controlling your level of joy. Say this out loud right now… “God has already overcome every problem in my life.”

 

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