1. GOD
with us brings
Joy

2. 1 Peter 1.8-9
“Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.”

3. Source of Joy
Happiness comes and goes as the circumstances around us change
Joy permeates our souls
John 16.22

4. 2. Joy defies our circumstances
Joy sees the big picture beyond the immediate pain
James 1.2-4; Luke

5. 3. Joy is a choice
Mary chose joy and the role God had given her
You can choose to embrace joy
Romans 12.12; Psalms 5.11