The Real Thing

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SERIES:  Freedom!

TITLE:  The Real Thing

Scripture:  Galatians 5:22; Romans 14:17; 15:4-5, 13-14

 

            “The habit of always putting off an experience until you can afford it, or until the time is right, or until you know how to do it is one of the greatest burglars of joy. Be deliberate, but once you’ve made up your mind-jump in.” Chuck Swindoll in “Living on the Ragged Edge

 

 

  I.   WHAT HINDERS JOY?

 

Essential: joy and happiness are not the same. Happiness is dependent on (circumstances) whereas joy is an (inner attitude) not based on feelings or circumstances.

 

“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” Rom.14:17

 

5 hindrances to joy:

1.     Not understanding the difference between happiness and joy

2.     (Sin) in our lives.

3.     (Misplaced) confidence

4.     Experiencing (trials of faith).

5.     (Grumbling) and (complaining).

 

 

II.   WHAT ENHANCES JOY?

 

1.     Understanding the (source of joy).  “May the God of hope fill you will all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Rom.15:13

2.     Confessing and forsaking (sin).

3.     (Trust) in God.

4.     Proper (perspective).

5.     Give (thanks).

 

NEXT WEEK:  Still Waters

Scripture: Galatians 5: 22; Romans 12:18

 

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