Let Us Rejoice and Be Glad Every Day (Psalm 118:24)
Introduction:
1. Psalm 118:24 is a favorite verse of many people. a. This verse acknowledges God as the maker of a special day. 1) This day has to do with a special prophecy made in vs.22-23. 2) According to Matthew 21:42-44, Jesus fulfilled this prophecy. 3) The day when Jesus became the chief corner stone of God's kingdom was very special. b. This verse also indicates that the day under consideration was to be a time for God's people to rejoice and be glad. 2. As we search the Scriptures we see that joy and gladness are not limited to the day mentioned in Psalm 118. 3. In Psalm 100 an appeal is made for the Lord's people: a. to rejoice in vs.1 b. to be glad in vs.2. 4. Joy and gladness are quite common at this season of the year; however, the Lord's followers are to rejoice and be glad all year. 5. Let us consider some principles from the Bible that are touched on in the poem included in today's bulletin, "Recipe for Christmas All Year Long." 6. These principles will help us to "rejoice and be glad every day."
Discussion:
I. TAKE THE TIME TO SEE THE BLESSINGS THAT GOD PROVIDES
A. He provides all good and perfect gifts (James 1:17). B. He provides all spiritual blessings (Ephesians 1:3). C. He has given us "all things that pertain unto life and godliness" (2 Peter 1:3).
II. TAKE THE TIME TO APPRECIATE FRIENDS AND LOVED ONES
A. Let us imitate Paul who appreciated his friend Timothy (2 Timothy 1:3-5). B. The New Testament emphasizes "greetings" (1 Corinthians 16:20).
III. TAKE THE TIME TO:
A. laugh (Ecclesiastes 3:4; Proverbs 17:22a) B. enjoy good food (Acts 14:17; 27:33-36).
IV. TAKE THE TIME TO SHOW:
A. human kindness (Ephesians 4:32a) B. love (Colossians 3:14) C. peace (Romans 12:18; Matthew 5:9) D. optimism (Philippians 4:13; 2:14-15).
Conclusion:
1. The poem includes a recipe that is designed to help us to "remember to be in a Christmas spirit, even when it's not December." 2. By practicing the principles from the Bible that we covered, we will be able to "rejoice and be glad every day." 3. Will you do your best to put these things into practice in 2019?
