Small Group Resources

June 29 - July 5

Sermon Series: Daily Dose

Week 1: Joy

Ice Breaker, if Needed

What are your Independence Day traditions? 

Discussion Questions

1. What is the difference between joy and happiness? What is the worldly definition of joy? What is the Godly definition? How do you know what you are feeling or experiencing is joy or happiness? Why would it matter? What role do circumstances play in joy vs. happiness? 

2. What is the purpose of joy? Why does God command and even expect us to be joyful? Read Deuteronomy 28:47. What overwhelms us when joy is absent or rejected? How have you rejected joy? 

3. Read John 15:9-14. Who is speaking? 
a. In verse 9, what does Jesus say to do? What is the relationship between remaining in the love of God and your joy? How do fixed, focused thoughts on His love build joy in your life? 
b. According to verse 10, what must we do to remain in His love? What kind of commands does He give? Share a time you found joy in doing the right thing, even in difficult circumstances.
c. Read verses 11-13. How would your struggles be impacted if you served and loved your way through them? What can you do the next time you feel joy is elusive or even impossible? What is the role of gratitude in building your joy? 

4. Read and memorize 1 Thessalonians 5:16. You can do it! What is the key word? How are you doing with this command? 

5. God’s promises never fail. What promises has God made about who He is, what He has done, and who you are? List them. How can you express joy in your good times? How can you fight for joy during tough or even tragic times?