Joy in the Journey (Home Group)

God has been bringing in a theme the last few times we have been together…

Falling apart or coming together?

Commitment Costs.

KEY POINT- There is no doubt that there will be times in your life that serving God is challenging.

“The Struggle is Real”

QUESTION- Has the struggle influenced your walk with God? How so? Why?

I have learned that sometimes traveling can be fun, but the truth is, most of the time traveling is rough!!

MAIN POINT- How can we find rest, peace, and joy even in the hard times???

There is someone who had deep emotions and feeling, and you see it come out often… David…

(NLT) — A psalm of David. 1 Keep me safe, O God, for I have come to you for refuge. 2 I said to the Lord, “You are my Master! Every good thing I have comes from you.” 3 The godly people in the land are my true heroes! I take pleasure in them! 4 Troubles multiply for those who chase after other gods. I will not take part in their sacrifices of blood or even speak the names of their gods. 5 Lord, you alone are my inheritance, my cup of blessing. You guard all that is mine. 6 The land you have given me is a pleasant land. What a wonderful inheritance! 7 I will bless the Lord who guides me; even at night my heart instructs me. 8 I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me. 9 No wonder my heart is glad, and I rejoice. My body rests in safety. 10 For you will not leave my soul among the dead or allow your holy one to rot in the grave. 11 You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.

POINT- God’s presence is able to meet you where you are and bring more joy to your life than your greatest dreams and desires.

(NLT) — 33 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.

POINT- God’s presence brings joy even in the struggle.

QUESTION- Why does being in God’s presence make all the difference?

KEY POINT- God’s presence is connected to clear moments that are proven to bring joy and peace in life.

God’s presence allows us to…

1. Know God

QUESTION- Would you rather know how you are going to die, or know when you are going to die?

Knowing is a funny thing…

KEY POINT- The more you know God the more it builds your faith.

2. Expereince God

I know God loves me, and I rejoice in that, but I get even more pumped when I expereince his love.

ILLUSTRATION- Matthew saying, “Is this vacation?”

3. Serve God