Want to Be Happy? Have Joy in the Lord and Be Happy

Joy and happiness are often used interchangeably, but there is a distinct difference between the two. Happiness is a temporary feeling of pleasure that is often dependent on our circumstances. Joy, on the other hand, is a deep-seated sense of contentment and peace (Romans 5:1) that comes from our relationship with God.

‘Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, ‘

Romans 5:1

The Bible talks about joy in several verses, including Psalm 16:11, which says, “You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” This verse emphasizes that joy comes from being in the presence of God, not from external circumstances.

Another verse that distinguishes between joy and happiness is Romans 15:13, which says, “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” This verse shows that joy and peace come from believing (or having faith in) what? The gospel, and being indwelled with the power of the Holy Spirit, not from anything external.

In Galatians 5:22-23, joy is listed as one of the fruits of the Spirit, emphasizing that it is a spiritual attribute. James 1:2-3 also speaks about joy in the midst of trials, showing that joy can be present even when circumstances are difficult.

‘But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. ‘

Galatians 5:22-23

‘My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. ‘

James 1:2-3

While happiness is a good thing, it is fleeting and dependent on external factors; Money in the bank, bills paid, a nice running car, etc. But the moment the bank account is at zero, bills are piling up and the car breaks down happiness is out the window. Joy, on the other hand, is a deep-seated contentment that comes from our faith in and relationship with God. As believers, we can experience joy (and be happy) even in difficult circumstances because we know that God is with us and that He is working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28).

‘And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. ‘

Romans 8:28

Thank you for reading.

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Jamie Pantastico

Mesa Bible Study

Faith, Sine Qua Non

“What is Not Properly Understood can “Not” be Properly Applied”

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What Saith the Scripture?

Most problems in interpreting Bible passages arise from neglecting a passage’s context. The guiding principle of sound interpretation is to take a passage literally. Not maintaining this discipline, interpreting Scripture becomes made up, man’s idea, fantasy, and the passage can mean almost anything. The result is erroneous and ridiculous interpretations.

Another important principle to sound Bible interpretation is to read Scripture “in-time”. In other words, we have to read and study the Bible as a progressive revelation. Not getting ahead of God’s revelation.

God’s plan of redemption for mankind wasn’t revealed all at once to Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, Isaiah, or any of the other old testament prophets. Not even Peter and the eleven were given the full counsel of God. The Lord revealed to each of the aforementioned what they needed at their particular time in Biblical history. A hermeneutical method that does not approach Scripture as a progressive revelation leads to erroneous interpretations.

To be a good bible student one must maintain a literal, grammatical and historical (in-time) hermeneutic. There has been much too much of man’s theology governing Scripture when it is God’s Word alone that reigns over theology.

Who's writing?

Identify the author of the book and passage.

Who is the author writing too?

Who is the audience? Yes, all Scripture is for us but not all of Scripture is directed to us our salvation and doctrine (how to live our daily lives). To say all of Scripture is, is erroneous interpretation.

When was the Book or Passage written?

This is necessary to identify the time and historical context.

What were the circumstances when it was written? (what was going on)

What was going on before and after it was written?

What happen before and after the particular Book or Passage you’re reading?

What is the HISTORICAL CONTEXT OF THE VERSE?

Where does the Bible verse fit in Biblical history. Use the answers from the list of these questions to identify the “historical context”.

Are there other passages that the Author has written to help expand on the verse your reading?

Utilize the full counsel of God to illuminate the passage

All of Scripture fits perfectly.

The Good News

salvation

Salvation is a FREE GIFT from God. You don’t have to do anything but believe by faith that God sent His only Son Jesus Christ to die for your sins, was buried, and rose from the dead 3 days later.

THE GOOD NEWS

SALVATION

Salvation is a FREE GIFT from God. SALVATION IS BY FAITH ALONE & FAITH IS BELIEVING WHAT GOD SAYS.

God declares all mankind sinners and we all fall short of Glory of God. Romans 3:23
The payment for our sin is death. Romans 6:23
But God…because he loved you so much sent His own Son, Jesus Christ, to die in your place, for your sins, was buried, and rose from the dead three days later. 1 Cor 15:1-4; 2cor 5:21

All God asks is that you believe by faith alone in 1, 2, & 3. That you’re a sinner, separated from God but God sent his Son to die for your sins, was buried & rose again 3 days later.

that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.

Romans 10:9

Do You Believe?

Want to Be Happy? Have Joy in the Lord and Be Happy

by Jamie Pantastico

Daily Encouragement

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