One of the common expressions of Christmas is JOY, yet I fear that joy is under attack this year, more than others, for obvious reasons.  The “Evil One” would love to steal our joy.  The reality is this: Being joyful is an intentional choice…an act of the will…because it is a command of God.  Being obedient to His command will be a result of our attitude.  The right attitude will depend on our focus.  Of course, our focus should be Jesus, accompanied by remembering all that He has done, and is doing, for us!  So…focus…and remember!

Philippians 4:4

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!

John 15:9-11

Jesus said, 9 “Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love. 10 “If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. 11 “These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full.

Psalm 5:11-12

11 But let all who take refuge in You be glad, Let them ever sing for joy; And may You shelter them, That those who love Your name may exult in You. 12 For it is You who blesses the righteous man, O LORD, You surround him with favor as with a shield.

Romans 15:13

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

“The joy of the Lord will arm us against the assaults of our spiritual enemies and put our mouths out of taste for those pleasures with which the tempter baits his hooks.” ~ Matthew Henry

The Lord bless you and keep you…

Pastor Dave