Sept. 29, 2024, sermon notes

JOY: A New Perspective Part 4: The Fullness of Joy! Dr. Chris Montgomery | Sept. 29, 2024 (James 1:2) Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds… God communicates to us for our joy. (Psalm 16:11) You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. (John 15:11) These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. (John 10:10) The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. (Romans 15:13) May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. How do I stir up joy in God? 1. Spend time telling God stories! (Psalm 75:1) We give thanks to you, O God; we give thanks, for your name is near. We recount your wondrous deeds. (Psalm 86:12) I give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with my whole heart, and I will glorify your name forever. 2. Spend time calling upon the Lord! (Psalm 86:5) For You, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon You. (Psalm 31:14) But I trust in you, O LORD; I say, “You are my God.” 3. Spend time venting what steals your joy! (Psalm 116:2) Because He bends down to listen, I will pray as long as I have breath! 4. Spend time searching the Scriptures! (Hebrews 4:12) “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17) “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”