Introduction:

A. Joy and Giving
B. Joy in Giving

I. A Word about Joy

A. Deep, abiding joy versus the world’s false promises of happiness

B. Joy in all we do and in every presentation of the gospel.
1. Joy is evidence of the Spirit’s influence (Gal. 5:22).
2. A smile on the face does not necessarily indicate joy in the heart.
3. “A joyful hear makes a cheerful face” (Prov. 15:13).

C. Christianity is a religion of joy (Rm. 5:2-3; Col. 1:24).

D. What is the source of Christian joy?
1. Joy is a gift of God (Eccl. 2:26; Ps. 144:15).
2. Reasons for rejoicing:
a. We have been released from our sins (Col. 1:13-14).
b. We are part of a dedicated family of believers (1 Jn. 1:3-4).
c. We enjoy the preventative grace of God (1 Cor. 15:10).
d. We know that there is joy even in adversity (Jas. 1:2; Prov. 17:22).

E. Joy is indispensable to our influence for the cause of Christ (Eph. 1:3).

II. A Word about Giving

A. Giving is another admirable virtue (Acts 20:35).

B. In response to His giving, we should count our blessings.
1. A “gift” is something freely given or graciously bestowed.
2. In Scripture, almost always in reference to what God has given (Rm. 8:32; 6:23; Jas. 1:17).

C. When appropriate response is lacking; we become despicable ingrates
(Lk. 17:11-19).

D. How do we respond in thanksgiving to the gift of God?
1. We must give our lives to God (Gal. 2:20; Ph. 1:21).
2. We meet the needs of others (Gal. 6:10; 1 Cor. 9:22).
3. Two greatest commands (Mt. 22:37-39)

Conclusion:
A. Joy is the result of giving more so that giving the result of joy (Jn. 3:16).
B. Joy is incomplete until we have given ourselves to God.
C. There is joy in giving.