Joshua Boyd
This message was recorded at a special event with multiple ministries coming together to bring Joy. Hosted by Crown Heritage Fellowship and Armed Ministries.
Key Verse: John 15:11 (NKJV)
“These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.”
1. The Promise of Jesus’ Joy
- Jesus promised not only peace, but His joy—a lasting, divine joy.
- The world’s joy is temporary and tied to circumstances; His joy remains.
2. Don’t Be Tossed by the Waves
- Many believers tie their joy to external events (economy, politics, etc.).
- James warns against being like waves—up when things go well, down when they don’t.
- Our joy should be anchored, not tossed by the winds of culture.
3. The New Testament Church Example
- Early Christians thrived under hostile Roman rule.
- They didn’t complain about government—they lived under a different Kingdom.
- Paul modeled joy even in suffering:
- Romans 1:10–12 — “I long to see you… to encourage you, and be encouraged by you.”
- Two key principles:
- Stay connected.
- Encourage each other.
4. Main Point: Joy Is Connected to Relationships
“Your joy—God’s joy—is connected to the relationships in your life.”
- When joy is low, check your relationships.
- God uses people to strengthen us; the enemy uses people to drain us.
- Joy flows through healthy, life-giving relationships.
5. Our Joy in God’s Presence
- Joy also comes from our relationship with God.
- David modeled this:
- Psalm 9:2 — “I will be filled with joy because of You.”
- Psalm 16:11 — “In Your presence is fullness of joy.”
- Worship brings the presence of God—and with it, joy.
6. Practicing God’s Presence
- You can experience His presence anywhere—at home, work, or in the car.
- Worship brings breakthrough.
- God delights in hearing His children sing.
7. Jesus’ Joy Was People
Hebrews 12:2 — “For the joy set before Him, He endured the cross…”
- That joy was you.
- Jesus saw us as worth the suffering.
- His joy was found in relationship with His people.
8. The Power of Connection
- Ecclesiastes says: A threefold cord is not easily broken.
- Strong, godly relationships keep you standing when life shakes.
- Isolated cords snap—connected ones hold.
9. Joy Strengthens Faith
- Joy and faith are linked:
- No joy → no faith.
- Strong joy → strong faith.
- Joy keeps you enduring through trials (James 1:2–4).
Summary Points
- Joy is not found in circumstances—it’s found in relationships.
- Stay connected—to people and to God.
- Guard your joy like your strength.
- Be the steady light others can look to when the world grows dark.
