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How Our Joy May Be Full!
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsJoy, as a profound spiritual theme, permeates the essence of a life aligned with God. It is often symbolized by the use of oil, representing gladness and the Oil of Joy, which signifies the uplifting spirit present at the inauguration of kings and in spiritual contexts. This joy, a fruit of the Holy Spirit, is a divine gift that elevates the faithful above worldly sorrows, filling them to the brim with a sense of well-being and happiness. The fullness of joy, as described, means to be complete, holding as much as possible in spiritual development and intensity. It is rooted in fellowship with God and Jesus Christ, accessible through a deep relationship with Them. This fullness is the sum total of all that is in God, available to us through Christ, who embodies the totality of divine wisdom, power, and love. Without Christ, there is no true joy or consolation; He is the source and fountain of blessings, communicating this joy through intimate connection with the church. Obedience and love are pivotal in achieving this joy. Obedience to God's commandments produces fruitfulness, resulting in a joyful life now and in the future. Love unites us to Christ, fostering a relationship of mutual esteem and affection among brethren, which is essential for joy to remain full. Despite living in a world influenced by satan, believers are called to rise above its sorrows, maintaining a joy that is uninterrupted by sin when they live in fellowship with God and each other. This full joy is not merely a personal experience but a communal one, flowing from God through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit to us, and then radiating to others. It transforms mourning into dancing, promising that those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. In the Kingdom of God, joy is a defining attribute, where ideal relationships will flourish without the curse of sin, and happiness will permeate all associations. God desires to share this eternal, joyful life with us, surrounding Himself with enjoyable activities and expanding His spiritual family. In this future, joy will accompany great accomplishments and righteous standards, with every trial becoming an opportunity for sanctification and identification with our Savior. Everlasting joy will mark the establishment of God's Kingdom on earth, expressed in celebration when His people gather, underpinned by faith in His promises and in Jesus Christ, in whom all promises are fulfilled. Thus, we are encouraged to rejoice always, maintaining this full joy despite worldly challenges, with the assurance of God's love, truth, and promises.
Fortress of Joy
Sermonette by Bill OnisickHuman happiness is perishable, dependent as it is on positive life-experiences. Spiritual joy is infinitely more enduring than happiness based in the world.
Joy No One Will Take From You!
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsMaterialism has never led to anything but increased sorrow. True lasting joy is based neither on material accumulation nor in physical accomplishments.
The Joy of the Lord Is Our Strength!
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe true source of joy does not consist on any worldly commodity, or any self-centered, hedonistic pursuit, but instead a spiritual gift, bestowed by God.
A Memorial of Our Joyful Future
Sermonette by Bill OnisickTo the reprobate world, the sound of teruw'ah represents terror and war, but to God's called-out ones it is a time to render praises of happiness and great joy.
You Are My Friends!
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWhile it is common on Facebook to defriend/unfriend, Christ's love for His people is a friending with the condition that godly fruit is produced.
The Unleavened Life Is a Happy Life!
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe Days of Unleavened Bread define our responsibility in God's plan to purge out habits, attitudes, and teachings that do not conform to God's way.
Our Part in the Sanctification Process (Part Eight) Cultivating the Fruit of Faithfulness
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by David F. MaasThe only tangible measures of faith is faithfulness, trust, and loyalty to God. We don't need to ask God for more faith, but rather work on being faithful.