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Examine the Word

• Read Psalm 16
• Read Habbakuk 3:17-19
• Read 1 Peter 1:8-9

For Discussion

• David describes his relationship with the Lord in Psalm 16. How does he specifically point to God as the source of his joy? Have you experienced God in this way?
• Joy is an abiding virtue, which is not dependent on circumstances. Share with your group a time when life was difficult and yet you were full of joy because of God.
• Habakkuk talks of joy as an active choice in Habakkuk 3:18. How do you actively choose joy in your every day life? Can you grow in this area?
• How does 1 Peter 1:8-9 characterize joy for the believer? Follow Peter’s logic in the verse. What role does joy play in our faith journey?
• Is joy an attribute that people often see in Christ followers? Why or why not? How could we be better ministers of the gospel if we focused on being joy-filled and sharing joy with others?

For Practice

• Meditate: Write out 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 on a piece of paper or add it into your phone. Read it each morning for a week, meditating on God’s calling for you to live joyfully in Christ.
• Tell: Is there someone who adds joy to your life? Let them know! Send a text, make a call, or write a word of encouragement.
• Pray: If you struggle to find joy in this season, talk with God about it. Ask Him to fill you up with joy by His Holy Spirit. Remember - joy is different than feeling good or happy. It comes from a deep abiding with God.

For Family Discussions

• Talk about the difference between joy and happiness. The world seeks happiness but those who know Jesus have access to joy. What’s the difference? How can you tell others about the joy you’ve found in Jesus?
• Memorize 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 together as a family.