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"The Joy of Praise" (Acts 16:22-29)
Originally Delivered: March 9, 2008
Message Length: 27 min.
Abstract -

This is the first of four messages in a series on the subject of Joy (see message 0812 - 0815).  We all praise something.  Pastor Don points out that God created us, for among things, to be joyful.  Even in the toughest of times we have things to be joyful about, as evident by Joni Eareckson Tada's life story.  In the new testament bible we see countless stories where  Christians suffering under persecution as able to see joy during difficult times, as evident with Paul and Silas while in jail.  Pastor Don concludes with identifying how Paul had no joy until after the Lord sent Barnabas as an example.

Message Outline - Question Of The Week

Introduction:

Isn't that a great scripture to start a sermon on Joy ?"

We are created to praise. We will praise something, cars, house, people. When we are born again we are recreated to praise God.

Dr. William Strider and his wife had plan a huge barbecue, it rained.

"Daddy isn't this a gorgeous bad day?"

My "Memaw"

It takes hard work to be happy. Some where along the line she made a decision to praise God.

It is a faith thing. (T-shirt It's a Christian things.)

#I Surroundings do not have to effect joy.

    1. Paul and Silas have been flogged and thrown in jail. Feet in Stocks)
    2. Joni Eareckson Tada
    3. Her minister told her to sing.
    4. Why? Ephesians 3:10-13, Hebrews 12:1

#II Results of praising God.

    1. People around them changed.
    2. The other prisoner, the jailer and his family.
    3. The kingdom of God grew.
    4. A new church was started, Philippians church.
    5. Praise change a dark place to joy.
    6. God inhabits the praise of His people.

#III The praise of God changes us.

    1. Proverb 15:30
    2. Proverbs 17:22
    3. Cancer and heart patents heal quicker when they laugh.
    4. Illustrations: Couple silent treatment.
    5. Some people not happy if you hung them with a new rope.
    6. Definition of Graces "Grace is the desire and power to do God's will."
    7. Philippians 4:4

(Marge and Kathy lead the round rejoice in the lord--)

Conclusion:

Apostle Paul was not always a fun guy to be around.

    1. Acts 15:37-39
    2. Acts 26: 9-11
    3. But God sent Paul an example Barnabas.
    4. But, it was still the Apostle Paul's choice.

God is always putting those gems of light in our lives. Examples for us to learn how to live in His joy.