SOME KIND OF SECRET?

•    difficult circumstances need not prevent joy
•    joy would be lost if no limitations to overcome

THE SPIRITUAL REALM: REDEEMED, RECEIVING, REASSURED

•    grounded in God: appointed to receive salvation
•    God’s will for us: joy, prayer, thanksgiving – reassuring
•    rejoice “in the Lord” always

THE PERSONAL REALM: REINED-IN APPETITES

•    avoid evil: shame & guilt drain joy
•    self-control instead of excessive sleep / drink / sex etc.
•    to reject holy living is to reject Holy Spirit who supplies joy

THE SOCIAL REALM: REINFORCEMENT AND RESPECT

•    encourage, build up other believers in brotherly love
•    respect for hard-working leaders: accept admonishment with humility
•    don’t pay back evil for evil: kindness not revenge

JOY INEXPRESSIBLE AND GLORIOUS

•    God’s will joy for us in every condition
•    trusting key to be filled with joy