Joy in July

Is joy something that is only for the young or those who are in denial of the troubles of life?  Certainly, there is not much greater joy than to hear children laughing with glee, enjoying oftentimes the simple things of life.  The Christian faith asserts that joy is part of the Christian experience of all ages.  It is not just for the young or for those who are hiding their heads in the sand.  Joy is described as the fruit of the Spirit of God at work in our lives in Galatians 5.  The Psalms speak again and again of joy that comes from praising God.  The Apostle Paul is able to encourage believers to rejoice in the Lord while he is imprisoned for his faith, as he writes to the church at Philippi.

Beginning on July 1, I will offer a Sermon Series that I have entitled "Joy in July."  We will explore the nuances of joy by looking at joy in praise, thanksgiving, others, variety, and in fun.  God does not intend for us to be grumpy Christians, but rather people filled with the joy of the Lord that is everlasting.