The Coming King | Joy

The Coming King – Joy | Luke 2:8-18
Luke 15:10 “In the same way, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”

Joy is a deep inner gladness that isn’t dependent on your circumstances.

Luke 2:8-11 “And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.”
A. Savior
B. Messiah (Christ)
C. Lord

Isaiah 9:6 “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”Luke 2:12-18 “This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests. When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” 16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.” How can we experience joy?

Joy is a gift from God.

3 Ways to Experience True Joy:
1. Stay Focused on God. 

Philippians 4:4-8 “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

Guidelines to help us focus on God
A. Intentionally praise God.
B. Connect with God through prayer.
C. Keep your focus on Godly things.

2. Living in obedience to God.

John 15:9-11 (NASB) “Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love. 10 If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. 11 These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full.”

3. Living in Biblical community.

Ecclesiastes 4:9a “Two are better than one”.

John 14:3“And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.”

Warren Wiersbe “Once you begin to cultivate this deeper communion with Christ, you have no desire to return to the shallow life of the careless Christian.”