Jesus: The Fulfillment of God’s Promise and the Blessing of Joy

Luke 2:8-12
"And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.

Savior: He rescues us from sin
Messiah: The long-awaited anointed one, fulfilling Israel’s hopes.
Lord: The divine King who reigns forever.

James 1:2-4
2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

The Distinction of Joy

Joy Is Not Connected To Status

If you don't know the difference between a temptation and a trial, you will try to use the wrong tool on the trial.
When tempted, the Bible teaches resistance.

When facing a trial, the key is often acceptance.

James 1:5 says, "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."

Pleasure Doesn't Signify Real Joy

The quality of joy is more important than the quantity of joy.

Hebrews 12:2, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Rejoice in the Fulfillment

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