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In every case in our church family there is sadness, particularly over our loved ones. Many of us are sad because of where our kids are spiritually. This is not a message on evangelism, but a message on encouragement. Joy is missing in many churches today. 2 things that rob you of your joy:
-Circumstances Warren Weirsbe's related a story about his daughter coming home from school, slammed the door, stomped up the stairs, and Warren wanted her to come and give him a hug, and she replied: "no! cuz you're a people too!". James 1:2 "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,[a] whenever you face trials of many kinds."God wants us to trust Him. You can't help God, He doesn't need you. Just trust Him! Joy is an outward expression of an inward condition. When you exhibit joy in difficult situations, people will wonder what's wrong with you. . . 1 Peter 3:15 "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have." Proverbs 3:5 & 6 "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." Isaiah 42:16 "I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them." It doesn't mean we don't pray-we can't convince people of their need for God but, God's Holy Spirit will convince people of their need. . . You have every reason to be joyful, in Me! Mark 6:5 & 6 "He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them. He was amazed at their lack of faith." |
