COMMUNITY Study Questions
- Do you get blue or feel down at this time of the year? How has Covid affected your mood these days?
- Do you know someone that you would consider to be particularly joyful? What do you think it is about that person that makes them joyful?
- Is there a difference between an optimist and being a joyful person?
- Can you be a pessimist by nature and still be joyful?
- Read John 15:8 - 13.
- Jesus’ desire is that we be filled to the full with joy (v. 11). Do you think Christians have a reputation for being joyful or not? Why do you think that is or isn’t the case?
- Joy is not something that we pursue in itself. Rather it is a byproduct of loving God or loving others. Describe a time when you felt significant joy in your life. What was it that caused you to feel that kind of joy?
- Besides the fact that it feels good to be joyful, what are other reasons or benefits to living joyfully?
- Do you think that we as Christians are easily swayed by the advertising in the world around us? Why or why not?
- Read 1 Timothy 6:6 - 9. Is this verse saying that we shouldn’t pursue wealth? If so, what does that mean for us in this culture we live in? If not, what is it saying about how we should live in a capitalist society?
- Which of the three ways to cultivate your heart for growth in joy (worship, gratitude, service) do you find easiest? Which do you find most challenging? Why?
PRAYER
