121 AdventSample

Why Joy?

So then, if we know what joy really is, why is it important?

For followers of Christ, when we are filled with joy and we begin to express it, we proclaim to the world that we can rejoice in any situation (Philippians 4:4) and we declare God’s glory with cries of joy (Psalm 47:1). It may not always look pretty, but we can depend on God to deliver us and we can be joyful in the process because of so much that has been done for us through the finished work of Jesus Christ. If we don’t choose joy, we are proclaiming what Jesus did wasn’t enough. That’s why it’s important for us to choose joy everyday. There is nothing we will encounter that Jesus can’t relate with us on and that He will not bring us through.

Families With Young Children

Read James 1:2. KIDS, why do you think joy is important? Do you think we look different from those around us when we have joy, even when things aren’t going well? What does James 1:2 say happens when we think of our troubles as pure joy? (it produces in us the strength to continue)

KIDS, When we remember that our joy comes from belonging to the Lord, we can be confident that in times of trouble He will work all things out. By choosing joy, we can be a testimony to those around us of the confidence that comes in knowing and belonging to Christ!

I love the song Joy to the World…Joy to the World, the Lord is come! Let earth receive her King; Let every heart prepare Him room, And Heaven and nature sing… Take some time to sing this familiar song together as a family. Finish up this day by talking about ways you can allow the Lord to use you to bring joy to those around you this Advent season.