As we read our Bibles, we will find many examples of joy and the application of that joy in our daily lives.
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“For the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 14:17 NKJV)
One of Paul's final instructions to the Church:
“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13 NKJV)
Paul in the context of preaching the Gospel to the believers in Philippi
“And being confident of this, I know that I shall remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy of faith.” (Philippians 1:25 NKJV)
Paul encourages the Church under persecution:
“And you became followers of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit.” (1 Thessalonians 1:6 NKJV)
Then later, Paul says to the Church:
“For you are our glory and joy.” (1 Thessalonians 2:20 NKJV)
“Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you.” (Hebrews 13:17 NKJV)
This joy comes as we believe the Gospel (Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection). Peter says:
“Whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory.” (1 Peter 1:8 NKJV)
And Peter goes on later to say this joy is found in Christ's sufferings:
“But rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.” (1 Peter 4:13 NKJV)
5. How vital is joy within the life of the Church? What is the source of that joy?
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As you read the Psalms, there are many examples and exhortations for us to rejoice in the Lord.
“Be glad in the LORD and rejoice, you righteous; And shout for joy, all you upright in heart” (Psalm 32:11 NKJV)
David's pray after confessing his sin:
“Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, And uphold me by Your generous Spirit.” (Psalm 51:12 NKJV)
Yes, we are to rejoice and be glad in the Lord. Even when we fall into sin, we can ask for the Lord to forgive us and restore the joy of the Lord's Salvation found there at the Cross.