HOW TO HAVE JOY

This morning we’re going to begin a new verse-by-verse study from the book of First John on the theme, “Living Confidently For God.”

Thirty-two times John uses the word “know” in this book.   That’s because this is a book that gives us assurance and confidence.  John is saying in this book, “I want you to be sure!”

For the next 11 weeks we’re going to study this book and learn four things about The Purpose Of First John.

We’re going to learn that First John is able to give me the solution for my EMPTINESS (1:4).

Second, we’re going to learn that First John is able to give me the solution for my GUILT (2:1)

Third, we’re going to learn that First John is able to give me the solution for my CONFUSION (2:26)

And lastly, we’re going to learn that First John is able to give me the solution for my DOUBT (5:13)

This morning we’re going to look at what John says about how to have joy in your life.

Erma Bombeck once wrote an article about how she was once sitting in church a few rows behind a little boy and his mother.  The boy was looking over the back of the pew and smiling at everyone behind him as they smiled back.  Suddenly his mother realized what he was doing.  She turned his head around and scolded him saying, “Stop that grinning.  You’re in church!”

God forbid that we should smile, have fun or be happy in church!

(ER)  1 John 1:4 And these things we write to you that your joy may be full. (NKJV) CIRCLE “THAT YOUR JOY MAY BE FULL”

How many of you could use a little more joy?  Could you use a little more joy in your job, your finances, your marriage, your family, and your life in general?

John tells us in verses 1-4 that there are 3 WAYS TO EXPERIENCE JOY.  First, I can experience joy...