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Introduction: A.
Following Christ ultimately means there will be diverse
trials. B.
That is part of the cost of being in Christ. C.
Such is necessary if we are to be faithful unto death. D.
It will include times when we will need to endure
inconveniences, or the wrongs of life in service to our Savior. Acts
16:25ff E.
Yet for all these toils and persecutions a faithful servant
will go through, there is no greater joy than being a Christian
because… 1.
You know you’re saved by the grace of God. 2.
You know faithful brethren are there to build you up in the
faith. 3.
You know that ultimately God’s peace and mercy are with
you. Discussion: I. The Joy of Being In Christ A. Knowing God desired to bring us His Son. Luke 2:8-11 1.
Knowing we’re delivered from the bondage of sin. Romans
6:17, 22-23 2.
Knowing our salvation is kept by our Sovereign God. Romans
8:28 B.
Knowing we can share our lives on earth with God’s
children. 1.
Knowing we’re not alone in your walk while here in this
land of sin and sorrow. Acts
2:46-47 2.
Whether hurting or rejoicing… we take pleasure in sharing
our lives with those who love and serve our Great God. 1
Cor. 12:26 II. Attaining Joy In Christ A. This life is full of inconvenient and trying moments…how can we have (develop) this type of joy? 1.
It is easy and natural to manifest frustration, anger and
sorrow in difficult situations. 2. But such are the works of the flesh, which lead to division and all discord. Gal. 5:20 B. So, how do we live with joy being in Christ? 1.
We willingly submit to the lordship of our Savior. 2.
We desire to follow in His footsteps. 3. We strive for harmony with our brethren. C. In other words: we let the peace of Christ rule our lives. Col. 3:15 1.
We strive to make peace. Acts
15:1-34 (Matt.
5:9) 2.
We rejoice in suffering wrong in service to our Lord. Acts
16:16-25ff (Matt.
5:10-11) 3.
We trust that our walk of faith will yield God’s peace in
our lives. Phil.
4:6-7 Conclusion: A.
You see, there is no greater joy than being a Christian,
despite the toil and struggles that will be endured along the way. 1.
Would you like to have this kind of joy? 2.
Give up your self-will and take part in the Good News given
by our Gracious God. 3. Share – with others of life precious faith – in your walk in the Lord. 4. God’s joy will be there because you’re living in Christ.
Glory
to God in the church by Christ Jesus
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