5. Seven sources of joy. In all our affliction, I am overflowing with joy.

2 Corinthians 7. 4. What is extraordinary about Paul is how unbelievably durable his joy was

when things weren't going well. Where did this come from? First of all, it was taught by Jesus.

Blessed are you, when people hate you, rejoice in that day and leap for joy for behold your reward

is great in heaven. Luke 6, 22, and 23. Troubles for Jesus, compound your interest in heaven,

which lasts a lot longer than earth. Second, it comes from the Holy Spirit. Not our own efforts or

imagination or family upbringing. The fruit of the Spirit is joy, Galatians 5, 22. He received the

word in much affliction with the joy of the Holy Spirit, 1 Thessalonians 1, 6. Third, it comes from

belonging to the Kingdom of God. The Kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but

of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, Romans 14, 17. Fourth, it comes through face

that is, from believing God. May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing.

Romans 15, 13. I know that I will remain and continue with you all for your progress and

joy in the face, Philippians 1, 25. Fifth, it comes from seeing and knowing Jesus as Lord.

Rejoice in the Lord always, Philippians 4, 4. Sixth, it comes from fellow believers who work hard

to help us focus on these sources of joy rather than deceitful circumstances.

We work with you for your joy. Second, Corinthians 1, 24.

Seventh, it comes from the sanctifying effects of tribulations. We rejoice in our sufferings,

knowing that suffering produces endurance and endurance produces character and character

produces hope. Romans 5, 3 and 4. If we are not yet like Paul, when he says, I am overflowing

with joy, he calls us to be the imitators of me as I am of Christ for Corinthians 111.

And for most of us, this is a call to earnest prayer because a life of joy in the Holy Spirit

is a supernatural life.

...