Tag: Joy

Joy, part 5. How would you describe your purpose in life? Most of us would answer that question at an individual level. In many cultures—including that in which the Scriptures were written—people would think about their purpose corporately. The most … Continue reading “Happy Feet: Know Your Purpose”

Joy, part 4. The absolute centre of God’s affection, love and joy is his son, Jesus. When we place our faith in Jesus, we’re placing ourselves in the epicentre of God’s joy.

Joy, part 3. The future is unbelievably bright, no matter how tough things might be now. A joy-filled Christian can be cheerfully unconcerned about the future, because God is in control.

Joy, part 2. Last week we looked at seven reasons to be filled with joy regardless of our circumstances. This week we look at the seven responses that follow in Ephesians 1:15-23.

Joy, part 1. We start this series with a bold claim: Ephesians has the most upbeat, blessing-filled, happy opening to any letter in history.

There’s many verses that we’re likely to find on Christian fridge magnets. This probably isn’t one of them: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, when you face trials of many kinds” (James 1:2).

Blueprint, part 11. God doesn’t just command certain things of us, he empowers us through the Holy Spirit to fulfil them. One of the things he’s called us to do is to bring joy to the ends of the earth.

Joy: part 2. Joy is the gigantic secret of the Christian. We are called to a life of joy and happiness. The Bible talks about eternal pleasures and everlasting happiness. We will all experience sorrow; but being a glum, miserable … Continue reading “Pursuing Joy”

Joy: part 1. A sign of God’s kingdom coming on earth is joy. Jesus was full of joy and brought joy to people wherever he went. This week we walk with Jesus in Luke’s gospel and watch as he engages … Continue reading “Jesus the merrymaker”