Dana highlights the importance of being grounded in Scripture, referencing Matthew 25 and Revelation 19, which celebrate the joy of the Master and the marriage of the Lamb. Dana discusses the difference between worldly happiness and the deeper joy found in a relationship with God, emphasizing that true joy is a byproduct of love and faith. He explains that joy comes from the Lord, is experienced through the Holy Spirit, and is a reward for faithful service. Dana encourages believers to seek the fullness of the Holy Spirit, which empowers them to experience joy even in tribulation. He cites biblical examples, such as the joy of salvation and the joy found in God's presence, and concludes by urging the congregation to embrace the joy of the Lord as their strength, preparing for the ultimate joy of meeting the bridegroom. The message is a call to deepen one's relationship with God and to live in the joy that comes from the Holy Spirit.
Gratitude for the gathering and the Lord's presence
Importance of grounding in Scripture
Difference between worldly happiness and divine joy
Joy as a byproduct of love and faith
Joy from the Lord and the Holy Spirit
Joy in tribulation and the power of the Holy Spirit
Joy of salvation and God's presence
Call to embrace the joy of the Lord as strength
Preparation for the joy of meeting the bridegroom
6 And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.
21 His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.
6 And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. 7 Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. 8 And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints. 9 And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God.
8 Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.