But the fruit of the Spirit is … Joy

But the fruit of the Spirit is … Joy

Day 1 – Romans 5:1-5

[1] Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. [2] Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. [3] Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, [4] and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, [5] and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. (ESV)

  1. What are the two things we are told to rejoice in (vv 2-3)?
  2. What is the reason we are given to rejoice in our sufferings (vv 3-5)?
  3. Can you think of a time in your life when God used suffering to build your character or faith?

Day 2 – Philippians 4:4, 10-13

Philippians 4:4, 10-13

[4] Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. [10] I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. [11] Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. [12] I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. [13] I can do all things through him who strengthens me. (ESV)

  1. We are told to rejoice in the Lord (v 4). How do you think “rejoicing in the Lord” is related to “being content in every situation” (vv 10-13)?
  2. Is it more difficult for you to be content in “abundance” or in “need”?
  3. Paul says that he can “do all things through him who strengthens me” (v13). This verse is often taken out of it’s context of contentment. In what areas of life do you need God’s strengthening power to be content and rejoice?