FUEL

DAY FIVE: Joy Switch Pt 4

FUEL — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 07:01:59 +0000

God creates in us a desire to fulfill a purpose and to excel at what we do. Most of us feel that on a regular basis. It can lead us to desire the acknowledgement and approval of others to give us a sense of joy in what we can accomplish. But the Bible teaches us that true joy comes not from the gift, but from experiencing God – the one who created the gift.

1. Read John 3:22-30 and write down anything that you find interesting.

2. Why was John not upset like his followers? How was he able to find joy in “being less?” What makes becoming less so difficult?

3. What gifts has God given you that might have turned into a personal joy switch and kept your joy from being complete? How might you make yourself less and make Christ more?

DAY FOUR: Joy Switch Pt 4

FUEL — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 07:01:18 +0000

In a race, the runner focuses forward on the finish line and doesn’t look back to see the obstacles or the starting line. The runner always looks forward to the goal of crossing that finish line. Paul, even though he is a prisoner, is not focused on where he is (or has been) but is focused on the promise of joy he currently has in Christ and the goal ahead.

1. Read Philippians 3:12-21 make a few observations.

2. According to the verses, what is at the goal that Paul desires so much? Why must we put aside what has happened behind us?

3. Take a moment to reflect on things in your past that have stolen joy from you. Pray for God to set aside the things that hold you back and to fill you with the joy of the pursuit of Him.

DAY THREE: Joy Switch Pt 4

FUEL — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:01:49 +0000

We’re Americans. We take pride in getting it done ourselves. Going from nothing to something is the great American Dream. We take pride in everything we’re capable of doing. Unfortunately, we’re simply not capable of doing enough.

1. Read Philippians 3:1-11. Paul’s starting point seems cliché. What does it really mean to “rejoice in the Lord?”

2. There is a contrast here between two ways of “boasting.” What are they? Have you ever taken pride in following all of the religious rules? Paul basically says that’s worthless. Why? What is better?

3. It’s all about Jesus Christ. At the cross we understand what we need – a Savior. In your prayer time today, submit your heart to Him. Thank Him for His sacrifice.

DAY TWO: Joy Switch Pt 4

FUEL — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 07:01:16 +0000

A farm must be cared well for by its farmer in order to produce a abundant crop. Ground must be tilled and weeded; animals must be fed and cared for. For a farm to thrive, bad and diseased plants and animals must be removed to keep from spreading and destroying what is good. In the same way, God is working in our lives to remove stuff that is keeping us from joy.

1. Read John 15:1-15. What stands out to you in these verses?

2. According to these verses, why is Jesus telling the story? How can we remain in Him and have the complete Joy that He promises?

3. These verses command us to love and sacrifice for one another. How can you make a sacrifice for a friend or family member today?

DAY ONE: Joy Switch Pt 4

FUEL — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 07:01:41 +0000

We ask God for stuff all the time. It’s often something we grow so accustomed to doing that we rarely give any thought to how we ask. The Psalms are a great look at some of King David’s most raw and emotional moments. In them, we get a glimpse of how to approach God in prayer.

1. Read Psalm 4 and make a few observations.

2. David is asking God to answer his prayer. Upon what foundation does David build his case? What is his closing argument (verse 7-8)? Do you ask this way? Upon what foundation do you typically ask?

3. Take your requests to God today. Be open and honest, but focus on Him and His character, not your need.

DAY FIVE: Joy Switch Pt 3

FUEL — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 07:01:45 +0000

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.

DAY FOUR: Joy Switch Pt 3

FUEL — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:01:15 +0000

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?

DAY THREE: Joy Switch Pt 3

FUEL — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 07:01:34 +0000

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.

DAY TWO: Joy Switch Pt 3

FUEL — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 07:01:00 +0000

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.

DAY ONE: Joy Switch Pt 3

FUEL — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 07:01:19 +0000

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.