Dec 10, 2017
The Joy of Advent . . .
“To be rescued from sin’s death grip brings ecstatic joy. Only when a person recognizes and understands his hopeless spiritual condition apart from Christ, can he fully know the joy that comes with such a great rescue.”
- The advent of Christ gives great joy to a heart in need of rescue. That’s why the angel said to the shepherds, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:10-11
- Jesus is the source of great joy.
“These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” John 15:11
- He is the source of joy that is deeper than our greatest sorrows.
“ . . . as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, yet possessing everything.” 2 Corinthians 6:10
“for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part.” 2 Corinthians 8:2
“Though you have not seen Him, you love Him. Though you do not see Him, you believe in Him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory.” 1 Peter 1:8
- He is the source of joy that is better than all the world can give.
“You make known to me the path of life; in Your presence there is fullness of joy; at Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore.” Psalm 16:11
- The joy of Christ is poured out in us by His Spirit.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control . . . “ Galatians 5:22-23
- Refuse to trade inexpressible joy for interim moments of fleeting joy.
- The joy of Christ is sustained in His presence.