Let Us Follow David's Example of Always Being Glad (Psalm 9:1-2)
Introduction:
1. In Psalm 122:1, David expressed how glad he was when the time for worship arrived -- we need to follow his example. 2. David stated in Psalm 9:1-2 that he was always glad in the Lord. 3. In our lesson we are covering passages that will help us follow David's example of always being glad. 4. Gladness: feeling of joy or pleasure, cheerfulness 5. We are examining Scriptures that tie in "gladness" with: a. the way that we hear God's Word b. the way that we live c. the way that we respond to difficulty. 6. Let us begin by showing that . . .
Discussion:
I. WE ARE TO HEAR GOD'S WORD WITH GLADNESS
A. Acts 2:41 mentions "they that gladly received his word." 1. Peter had preached a great sermon in which he showed that Jesus is the Christ (see vs.36). 2. This sermon pricked the hearts of those who heard it (see vs.37). 3. (vs.38) Peter told them what they needed to do. 4. According to vs.41, about 3,000 people "gladly received his word." a. They responded by being baptized. b. They were added to the Lord's church (vs.41b, 47b). B. We need to examine the way that we hear the Scriptures (Luke 8:18). 1. God's Word is not "grievous" (1 John 5:3). 2. We need to appreciate God's Word for what it is and for what it will do (Psalm 19:7-11). 3. We need to be like the people we read about in Mark 12:37.
II. WE ARE TO LIVE WITH GLADNESS
A. In Acts 2:42-47, the Jerusalem congregation is described. B. These Christians enjoyed worshiping together and eating meals together. C. Please note that they ate their meals "with gladness." D. Reflecting upon God's goodness will lead us to be extremely thankful. E. Thankfulness will lead us to live and serve God with "gladness" (Psalm 100).
III. WE ARE TO RESPOND TO DIFFICULTY WITH GLADNESS
A. We learn this from Matthew 5:10-12; 1 Peter 4:12-14. B. By following the instructions given in Philippians 4:4-8 we can respond to difficulty with "gladness." 1. (vs.4) The Lord's will is for Christians to "rejoice" [be glad] always. 2. To accomplish this we must: a. demonstrate forbearance unto all men (vs.5) b. avoid being anxious (vs.6) c. think upon the right things (vs.8). 3. A special blessing is in store for those who follow these instructions (vs.7).
Conclusion:
1. According to the Scriptures, "gladness" plays a very important role in the lives of Christians. 2. Since "gladness" is so important, perhaps we should begin each day with the words expressed in Psalm 118:24. 3. A special event that relates to "gladness" is mentioned in Luke 15:32.
