FREEDOM40 - 40-Day Men’s Challenge to Live in FreedomSample

DAY 16

REFLECT + FOCUS

Joy is serious business!

It seems that the world is consumed with a head-long pursuit of fun and joy - however, real joy comes only from above. And it wells up within us as a fruit of the Holy Spirit as we yield to His presence in us.

It says in Hebrews that Jesus was able to endure the cross because of the joy that was set before Him. (Hebrews 12:2)

In fact, in Jesus’s final prayer for us, He prayed we would have the full measure of His joy within us. (John 17:13)

This joy is no small thing! It’s certainly not just a nice feeling or a happy worship song.

It is a deep, foundation stone in the love of God that enables us to endure the most difficult circumstances and seasons of life.

It’s something we choose to do.

I will rejoice. I will worship. I will shout. I will dance. I will celebrate.

Psalm 2:11 NIV says “Serve the LORD with fear and rejoice with trembling.”

Rejoicing while trembling in the fear of the Lord is entirely appropriate.

Psalm 89:15 NIV says “Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you…” so rejoicing and celebrating is something that we can set our hearts and minds on learning, through practice and perseverance.

I want to implore you - to live in freedom - you will need to learn to rejoice in each and every situation.

When you’re happy or sad, elated or devastated, healthy or sick, hopeful or hopeless.

SHOUT

Continue to use TWA as you ask God to teach you how to rejoice.

Serve the LORD with fear
Rejoice with trembling.
Psalm 2, verse 11

DISCOVERY BIBLE

What is God showing you through this passage in John 16:20-33?

Take notes and share some thoughts with your brothers, as you pray for one another.