Key Scriptures
“I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!” John 15:11
“I am coming to you now, but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of my joy within them.” John 17:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13
Start talking. Find a conversation starter for your group.
- Before this week's message, did you know the difference between Biblical joy and worldly happiness? What was the most impactful difference you learned?
- In the past, how has God shown up in ways you could not have imagined?
- What times do you think you may have confused happiness and joy?
Start thinking. Ask a question to get your group thinking.
- Do you find it easy to be full of joy? Why or why not?
- What do you see yourself often putting in this fill-in-the-blank? I’d be happy if ______ occurs.
- Do you tend to focus on your circumstances? Explain
Start sharing. Choose a question to create openness.
- What are some things that need to surrender to God so you can be set free like Zacchaeus?
- Are you in the habit of counting your blessings when things get tough? If not, what are ways you can work on doing so?
- Galatians 5: 22–23 lists the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Which fruit of the Spirit do you feel is the hardest to find in yourself?
Start praying. Be bold and pray with power.
Lord, thank you for your continuous outpouring of love and joy. I want to be in your presence, which is where joy is. I am sorry for counting on anything else that is not you and your presence. I pray for strength in the valley and may rejoice as if I am on the mountaintop. Holy Spirit reveal the things I must surrender and guide me and lead me to sacrifice for those in need. May I be a megaphone for you, oh Lord. I want to live every day in joy from here on out and glorify you in all that I do. Amen!
Start doing. Commit to a step and live it out this week.
- Carve out at least 15 minutes of your morning to be in His presence and prepare your day with the Armor of God strapped on.