Joy in the presence of God

An Invitation to Joy

Receiving the joy God gives and turning toward Him in worship, even when life is difficult.

Austin Marler Joy & Worship

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Message Guide

About This Message.

Paul and Silas pray and sing while imprisoned, and their story becomes an encounter with God’s saving power for a jailer and his household. Austin follows this account in Acts 16 to explore a joy that can take root even when circumstances are painful.

God’s joy gives strength, shapes our response to adversity, and bears witness to His goodness. This message invites us to bring our real struggles into His presence and continue in worship. As we turn toward Jesus, the hope He gives can also become an invitation for others to discover Him.

01

Receive strength from God

Bring your grief and weariness to the Lord and ask Him to renew you.

02

Worship in the waiting

Choose prayer and praise while you are still walking through an unresolved situation.

03

Let hope become a witness

Consider how your response to hardship can point others toward Jesus.

Take It Further

From Listening
to Living.

Use these questions for personal reflection, a conversation with a friend, or a small group discussion.

  1. 01

    What burden could you honestly bring into God’s presence today?

  2. 02

    What would prayer and worship look like in the middle of your current circumstances?

  3. 03

    Who might be encouraged by hearing what God is doing in your life?

Your Church. Your Community.

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