Focus. Life can change dramatically depending upon where you put your focus. Bad things can have an upside; good things can have a downside. If you focus on the bad, your attitude will suffer. If you focus on the good, you can be happy for a time. And when you focus on Christ, you can have joy no matter what.

1. Read 1 Peter 1:3-9 and write down anything that you find interesting.

2. What focus should you have when you struggle through trials and pain? What can you remember to help you keep joy?

3. The end focus of all of this is Jesus Christ. Take a moment to set your heart toward Him today.

Sacrifice can bring joy. When we focus on what our actions can and have done for others, the pain of the experience is minor in comparison.

1. Read Philippians 2:12-30 make a few observations.

2. Why does Paul say he’s glad about his circumstances? Would you be glad if your life was about to be “poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service” of someone’s faith?

3. The verses go on to describe two men who were heading to Philippi to encourage and build up the church there. They were going to serve. What is your willingness (and joy level) in serving others for the cause of Jesus Christ?

There’s nothing like other people to ruin your joy. More of our pain and frustration comes from relationships than any other source. Paul knew that when he wrote to the church at Philippi. That’s why he takes our self-interested focus of relationships and puts the focus on Jesus Christ.

1. Read Philippians 2:1-11 and write down anything interesting you come across.

2. Why do relationships have such power to take away joy? According to Paul, what is the secret to having joy and peace in your relationships?

3. Take humility with you into your interactions today. Jesus Christ was God (which means He’s way more important than us), and became a servant who died (which is way “less” than we tend to think of ourselves) for each one of us. Allow that truth to find its way into your heart today.

We typically reserve the story of Jesus’ birth for the Christmas season, but in it we see clear references to a great source of joy.

1. Read Luke 2:8-20. What stands out to you in these verses?

2. What is the source of joy referenced in these verses? Do you consider God’s presence on earth through Jesus to be a source of joy for you? He didn’t have to do it, but He did because He loves us.

3. Take time to consider why God sent Jesus. Take joy in that today.

Gratitude creates an attitude of joy. When we realize what we deserve and focus on the grace of God that gives us far more – the result is joy.

1. Read Psalm 92 and make a few observations.

2. Your life could always be worse. How often do you thank God like the author of these verses? Focus on God and give Him thanks.

3. Always remember that we all deserve death and hell (Romans 6:23), but God gave us His son to bring us back. That alone should inspire some joy. Pray your thanks to Him today.