Knowing Them By Their Fruits
A Study of the Fruit of the Spirit
Galatians 5:22-23
“By this is My Father glorified, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples.” Jesus (Jn. 15:8)
I. The JOY-Jackers (John 16:19-22)
Joy is a “fruit of the Spirit” that is to characterize those who are in the “____________ of God.” cf. Rom. 14:17 Real life has a way of ___________ the joy of most people. cf. John 16:22 – “no one will take your joy away”
Joy-Jackers:
- Unconfessed Sin – Ps. 32:3-4; 51:12
- Dependence on Self – Phil. 3:1-7
- Misplaced Priorities – Lk. 10:17-20
- God’s Discipline – Heb. 12:11
- Various Trials – Js. 1:2-4
The only _______ source of joy is a personal relationship with God that results in our “names recorded in heaven.” cf. Luke 10:20
II. The JOY of JESUS
Jesus’ desire is not only that His Joy be in us, but that His Joy be “________ ________” in us! cf. Jn. 15:11; 17:13
“True Christian joy is both a privilege & a duty.” Jerry Bridges
FYI – The angels of heaven are filled with joy when one, lost sinner ____________! cf. Luke 15:7,10; 10:17-24
It is more than possible for a believer to experience joy even in the face of _______________ & suffering.
cf. Mt. 5:10-12; Acts 5:40-42; 1 Th. 1:6-7; 1 Pet. 1:6-9
The Early Church in the Book of Acts was a ______-filled because the Gospel was spreading & changing lives.
cf. Acts 5:11; 8:8, 39; 13:52; 15:3
Expressing joy while going through trials is a ________ we make by the Spirit. cf. James 1:3 – “count” Peter spoke of “joy _______________” at Jesus’ Return!
Practical Application:
- Good & Bad Fruit – Mt. 7:16-20
- Ask & Receive – Jn. 16:23-24
- Rejoice & Rejoice – Phil. 4:4; 1 Thess. 5:16
Appointments with God
The Fruit of the SPIRIT – JOY
Galatians 5:22-23
Monday, November 7th
Meditate upon the Reason for Joy in Heaven:
- Luke 15:1-10
Just think about these 2 Parables – Lost Sheep & Coin. What do both parables have in common? Note connection between the lost being found & joy! Pray for one Lost Person in your life to repent & be saved!
Tuesday, November 8th
Meditate upon What brought Joy to Jesus:
- Luke 10:17-24
The 70 disciples have just returned “with joy” and excited about their powerful ministry. Is Jesus trying to “steal” their joy? Spend time praising God that your “name is recorded in heaven.” Don’t take it for granted.
Wednesday, November 9th
Meditate upon the Reason for Rejoicing:
- Matthew 5:10-12
Why did Jesus say to His disciples to “Rejoice & be glad?” Have you been “insulted” and “persecuted?” Pray for God to increase your joy as you expect persecution!
Thursday, November 10th
Meditate upon the Joy in the Early Church:
- Acts 5:40-42
Note the context of what is happening to the Apostles. All this because they were “speaking in the name of Jesus?!” Pray for God’s comfort & boldness for all the Persecuted Believers in the World.
Friday, November 11th
Meditate upon Joy Inexpressible:
- 1 Peter 1:6-9; 4:12-14
Notice how confident Peter was to see the revelation of Jesus Christ. True Joy comes from knowing Jesus & spending eternity with Him. Praise God for all that He has “reserved in heaven” for you!
Saturday/Sunday, Nov. 12-13
Meditate upon our Choosing Joy:
- James 1:2-4
Even though you may be struggling through a “trial” right now, pray for an opportunity to joyfully encourage one brother or sister in Christ who needs joy! Do it!
[audio:http://www.marshalltownefc.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/40-Knowing-Them-By-Their-Fruits-Gal.-5_22-23-Joy.mp3|titles=40 Knowing Them By Their Fruits (Gal. 5_22-23) Joy]40 Knowing Them By Their Fruits (Gal. 5_22-23) Joy
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