HOPE & JOY (2)

(Message by Tanny Keng)

1. Joy

a) True joy can only be attained as part of the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). It is that overwhelming sense of comfort and contention that floods one's soul. It is the thing that we have when we are walking with the Holy Spirit and mortifying the deeds of the flesh (Romans 8:13).

b) True joy comes only when we are focused upon walking with the Lord and esteeming others (Philippians 2:3-5). Since joy is fruit of the Spirit it is a special gift that only the believer has (Ephesians 1:12-14; 4:30).

2. Hope And Joy

1 Thessalonians 2:17-20  

But since we were torn away from you, brothers, for a short time, in person not in heart, we endeavored the more eagerly and with great desire to see you face to face, because we wanted to come to you—I, Paul, again and again—but Satan hindered us. For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you? For you are our glory and joy.

1 Peter 1:8-9 
Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

The End ...