Rejoice Always

Introduction

Who do you see when you think of God?

Neil’s Talladega Nights quote he loves We lean towards either King or Friend One piece we miss a lot is the joy of God God is a God of parties

Ezra/Nehemiah told the people to stop weeping and celebrate God’s grace Jesus went to a wedding and turned water into wine (John 2) Jesus was accused of being a drunkard for attending parties (Matthew 11) The party for the prodigal son (Luke 15) The party in heaven every time a sinner repents (Luke 15) God’s kingdom is compared to a party that we invite everyone to (Matthew 22)

Explanation

Joy is not circumstantial, it is a choice. (4:4)

it makes perfect sense that he says to rejoice always (3:1, 4:4)

but what about the fact that he’s in prison? (1:13) what about the suffering that comes? (1:29) the difference between joy and happiness

Joy comes from Christ-centered living…

Passages of support

1:5 — we have joy when we focus our lives on what matters most 1:25 — we have joy when we grow in our relationship with Christ 2:2 — we have joy when we’re unified in our pursuit of holiness 2:28-29, 4:10 — we have joy because of each other If you’re having to look to sin for happiness, you haven’t experienced all God has to offer.

If you feel like you’re missing out (on the world’s fun), then you are missing out (on the fullness of God) (3:8)

…& Christ-centered thinking.

4:8-9 — we have joy when we fix our thoughts on what’s true Root of “rejoice” is chairo — “delight in God’s grace” Proverbs 10:28 — “The hope of the righteous brings joy, but the expectation of the wicked will perish.” It’s “keep the fork” joy Mom and Dad saying life just keeps getting sweeter

Exhortation

Center your actions and thoughts on Jesus Times of thanksgiving and celebration are so important

Come next week ready to celebrate by: 2-3 people to encourage, 2-3 best moments of the year, 1 major way God has worked in your life Some upcoming (transition to announcements)