Make Believe
December 11, 2022
“Real Joy”
Philippians 4:11-13, Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. (ESV)
Isaiah 40:8, The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever. (ESV)
Look In– Find Joy in Righteous Living
Jeremiah 5:25, Your wickedness has deprived you of these wonderful blessings. Your sin has robbed you of all these good things. (NLT)
Romans 15:13, I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. (NLT)
Look Out– Find Joy in Serving Others
Hebrews 12:2, Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. (ESV)
Nehemiah 8:10, Then he said to them, “Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” (ESV)
Look Up– Find Joy in God’s Character
Philippians 4:19, My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. (ESV)
Isaiah 35:10, Those whom the Eternal One has recalled from a punishing exile, they will go along so easily. They will walk this path, Come waltzing to Zion, singing their way to that place of right relation to God. An aura of joy never-ending will attend them; they will clasp gladness and joy to their hearts while sadness and despair evaporate into thin air. (Voice)
Psalm 51:12, Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit. (ESV)
