God wants us to experience His joy.
Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is no trouble to me and is safe for you.
- Philippians 3:1
The joy of Jesus exceeds expectations.
“...therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness beyond your companions.”
- Hebrews 1:9
The joy of Jesus endures.
“looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross...”
- Hebrews 12:2
Joy comes from more than just a religious routine.
Look out for the dogs, look out for the evildoers, look out for those who mutilate the flesh.
- Philippians 3:2
8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast.
- Ephesians 2:8-9
Joy comes from practicing the presence of God.
For we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God…
- Philippians 3:3
15 “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, 17 even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.
- John 14:15-17
6 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.
- Hebrews 11:6
Joy comes from living with God’s value system.
...and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh…
- Philippians 3:3
7 But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. 8 Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ.
- Philippians 3:7-8