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  COUNT IT ALL JOY
  by A.B. Simpson
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Summary: We are to count it all joy by reckoning the things of God as
blessings and rejoicing by faith, even in difficult circumstances.

Topics: "Joy in Trials", "Faith and Rejoicing"
Scripture References: Psalm 30:5, Psalm 57:7, Isaiah 26:3, Habakkuk 3:17, John 16:33, Romans 6:11, 2 Corinthians 4:17, Philippians 4:4, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, James 1:2

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DESCRIPTION
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A.B. Simpson emphasizes the importance of counting all experiences as
joy, regardless of our feelings. He explains that the act of 'reckoning'
is crucial, as it involves treating ourselves as dead to our old nature
and choosing to rejoice in faith. Simpson encourages believers to fix
their hearts on God and to develop a habit of rejoicing, which leads to
a spirit of gladness and praise. He reminds us that even in times of
hardship and lack, we can still find joy in the Lord, as our peace comes
from knowing Jesus is in control. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a
steadfast commitment to joy and faith amidst life's challenges.

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CONTENT
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We do not always feel joyful, but we are to count it all joy. The word
"reckon" is one of the key words of Scripture. It is the same word used
about our death to self (Romans 6: 11). We do not feel dead. We are
painfully conscious of something that would gladly return to life. But
we are to treat ourselves as dead and neither fear nor obey the old
nature. So we are to reckon the thing that comes as a blessing. We are
determined to rejoice, to say, my heart is fixed, 0 God, my heart is
fixed: I will sing and give praise (Psalm 57:7).

This rejoicing by faith will soon become a habit and will bring
continually the spirit of gladness and the spontaneous overflow of
praise.

Then, although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in
the vines; the labor of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield
no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no
herd in the stalls: yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the
God of my salvation (Habakkuk 3:17). Peace, perfect peace, with sorrows
surging 'round? On Jesus' bosom naught but calm is found. Peace, perfect
peace, our future all unknown? Jesus we know, and He is on the throne.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/ab-simpson/count-it-all-joy/
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