Joy in God
Joy in God7
"A Cheerful Heart"
By A.W. Tozer0PSA 100:4PHP 4:4COL 3:151TH 5:16JAS 1:17A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of a cheerful heart in the life of a thankful Christian, drawing inspiration from Joseph Addison's Thanksgiving hymn. He highlights that true delight in God's gifts is expressed through gratitude and joy, which not only enriches our lives but also pleases God. Tozer notes that a cheerful heart is essential for safely enjoying the blessings God provides, and he reflects on the eternal nature of God's gifts, extending beyond this life. The sermon encourages believers to maintain a spirit of thanksgiving throughout their lives and into eternity.
Zion's Joy and God's
By Alexander Maclaren0NEH 8:10PSA 16:11PSA 30:5ISA 62:5ZEP 3:17JHN 3:29JHN 15:11ROM 15:13PHP 4:41PE 1:8Alexander Maclaren emphasizes the profound joy that exists between God and Zion, illustrating that Zion's rejoicing is a reflection of God's joy in her. He highlights the intimate fellowship between God and His people, where God's gladness is intertwined with their joy, and both are expressed through love and praise. Maclaren counters the misconception of a distant, joyless God by showcasing the vibrant, loving nature of God, who delights in His children and rejoices over them with singing. He encourages believers to embrace a religion of joy, rooted in the assurance of God's presence and love, which leads to a stable and perpetual joy in their lives. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a joyful response to God's love, reminding us that our joy is complete when we are in communion with Him.
Light and Joyfulness
By Andrew Murray0PSA 89:15Andrew Murray emphasizes the connection between light and joy in the life of a believer, illustrating that true joy comes from walking in the light of God's presence. He explains that God desires His children to be joyful, as joy reflects satisfaction in Him and serves as a testimony to others. Murray points out that sin and unbelief can lead to darkness, but through confession and faith in Jesus, believers can experience the light and joy that He offers. He encourages Christians to rejoice in the Lord always, as true joy is found in following Jesus and living by faith. Ultimately, joy in God is a mark of obedience and a reflection of His love and glory in our lives.
The True Path to Joy and Happiness
By Shane Idleman1343:29PSA 1:1Shane Idleman emphasizes that true joy and happiness stem from a deep relationship with God, as illustrated in Psalms 1. He explains that while happiness is often tied to external circumstances, joy is rooted in trusting God regardless of life's challenges. Idleman warns against the influence of ungodly counsel and encourages believers to meditate on God's Word, which leads to spiritual prosperity and fulfillment. He contrasts the blessed life of those who delight in God's law with the emptiness of those who pursue worldly pleasures. Ultimately, he calls for repentance and a return to God for true joy and fulfillment.
More Comforts, Sweetness, and Pleasantness
By Thomas Brooks0PSA 16:11PSA 119:1ISA 26:3MAT 5:8JHN 15:11ROM 14:17GAL 5:22PHP 4:7JAS 1:171PE 1:8Thomas Brooks emphasizes that a holy life is the ultimate source of joy and comfort, surpassing any pleasure found in ungodliness. He illustrates that true sweetness and pleasantness come from living a life of sanctity, where communion with God brings unparalleled peace and tranquility. Brooks encourages Christians to recognize the profound joy that accompanies a pure and holy walk with God, which far exceeds any past experiences of wickedness.
Joy in God
By Charles Finney0HAB 3:17Charles Finney emphasizes the profound joy that comes from a deep understanding and relationship with God, as illustrated by the prophet Habakkuk's declaration of joy despite dire circumstances. He explains that true joy in God is rooted in perfect confidence, sympathy with God's will, and recognizing Him as the all-sufficient portion of the soul. Finney argues that this state of mind is essential for peace, salvation, and usefulness in the world, as it allows believers to rejoice in God's sovereignty regardless of their circumstances. He warns against the dangers of seeking happiness in external factors rather than in God Himself, urging believers to cultivate a heart that rejoices in God's character and will. Ultimately, Finney calls for a transformative knowledge of God that leads to unshakeable joy and peace.
A Call to Grief
By David Wilkerson0GEN 6:5David Wilkerson emphasizes the necessity of sharing in God's grief over sin to fully experience His joy. He illustrates this through biblical examples, such as Noah, David, Amos, Nehemiah, and Paul, who all grieved for the transgressions of God's people. Wilkerson calls for a new generation of believers, the 'Samuel Company,' who are sensitive to God's heart and willing to confront sin within the church. He warns against the complacency of modern ministers who prioritize comfort over holiness, urging them to embrace the grief of God as a pathway to true joy. Ultimately, he concludes that those who mourn for sin will find profound joy in their relationship with Jehovah.