Sermon-"Pray for Joy" based on Luke 1:5-25; 67-79
Introduction : Joy. It is a word that we hear often during this time of year. We even sang about it this morning. We read it often throughout Scripture and especially with the announcement of Jesus birth. It is a fruit of the Spirit. “An attitude God’s people adopt not because of happy circumstances but because of their hope in God’s love and promise.” (The Bible Project) What brings you joy? Discourage vs. 5-7,18,24-25 · Christmas time is typically a time of joy, but for many it is a time of discouragement. · What causes discouragement in you? It might be a friendship, a strained relationship in family, a loss of job, a loss of a loved one, frustrations at work or school, health issues, COVID. · Zechariah and Elizabeth are experiencing discouragement as well. o Vs. 7-They had no children & They were advanced in years o Vs. 18-I’m old and my wife is advanced in years o Vs. 25-Take away reproach (disgrace or state of dishonor, sham