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Third Sunday of Advent: JOY! | Pastor Boniface Mgonja

Sunday, December 17th, 2023

 

Luke 2:8-15

8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven,
    and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

 

Joy vs Happiness:

  • Happiess is circumstantial
  • comes and goes based on exterior situations and feelings
  • Joy comes from within, from God
  • doesn't depend on situations

*I'm praying that this Christmas-season, God fills you will Joy-overpowering!  The Joy of the Lord is my Strength!

Yes, I'm going through things but the Joy of the Lord is my Strength!

John 16:22

22 So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.

JOY - is a Fruit of the Holy Spirit.

Joy opens your heart to receive from God.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

16 "Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."

Joy keeps you Healthy!

  • Proverbs 17:22  "A cheerful [joyful] heart is good medicine,
        but a crushed spirit dries up the bones."

1. Choose Joy - You must choose Joy!  

  • I know I will see the Goodness of God in the land of the living!
  • Jesus brought Joy from everyone

2. Pursue Joy - seek and deliberately pursue Joy!

  • Nehemiah 8:18 - 10 Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

 

*Next, click here to watch the full replay of this sermon from Pastor Boniface: 3rd Sunday of Advent - JOY!