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The Joy of Advent . . .

"To be rescued from sin's death grip brings ecstatic joy.   Only when a person recognizes and understands his hopeless spiritual condition apart from Christ, can he fully know the joy that comes with such a great rescue." 

• The advent of Christ gives great joy to a heart in need of rescue. That's why the angel said to the shepherds, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.  For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord."  Luke 2:10-11

• Jesus is the source of great joy.

"These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full."  John 15:11

• He is the source of joy that is deeper than our greatest sorrows.

 " . . . as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, yet possessing everything."  2 Corinthians 6:10

"for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part."  2 Corinthians 8:2

"Though you have not seen Him, you love Him.  Though you do not see Him, you believe in Him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory."  1 Peter 1:8

• He is the source of joy that is better than all the world can give.

"You make known to me the path of life; in Your presence there is fullness of joy; at Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore."  Psalm 16:11

• The joy of Christ is poured out in us by His Spirit.

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control . . . "  Galatians 5:22-23

• Refuse to trade inexpressible joy for interim moments of fleeting joy.

• The joy of Christ is sustained in His presence.