Sunday, August 3, 2025

1 John 1:4
We are writing these things so that you may fully share our joy. 

In this verse, John makes something beautifully clear: the goal of the message is to help us find joy. Not shallow cheerfulness, but complete joy. The kind of joy rooted in a relationship with God that doesn't collapse under the weight of stress, loss, or uncertainty.

I don't know anyone who wants less joy. Most of us want more of it, but not just fleeting, circumstantial happiness. What we crave and deeply long for is unshakeable joy.

If we’re being honest, the truth is - as we unpack and discover what it looks like to find joy in our complicated lives, the process might stretch us. Because as we search for joy and ask God to shine his light on us, it can reveal things we'd rather keep hidden. But on the other side of discomfort is a joy that doesn't fade when life gets hard or when we find freedom from the hurts or habits that have left us feeling stuck.

As we move forward into the week ahead, let's come with open hearts and a hopeful posture, because true, unshakeable joy isn't just a concept. It's a gift waiting to be fully shared by our loving, gracious, and forgiving God. 

Discussion Questions:
Ice breaker: Think back on a time and share something that brought you unexpected joy?

How can we encourage one another in our group or church to pursue unshakeable joy by living in honesty and light together?

Read 1 John 1:5-10: What stands out to you about the nature of God and our relationship with him? How does the promise of forgiveness in verse 9 affect your understanding of God’s grace and your ability to live joyfully and freely?

How do you respond when your sin and mistakes, or the sin and mistakes of others, hurt you?

Reflect and Respond: What does it look like for you, practically, to walk in the light this week in your family, friendships, and workplace? 

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I'm incredibly thankful to you for pulling me out of the darkness and into your light. I know I still have places where I haven't fully surrendered to you, but I come today and ask you to help shine light on these sins so that I can focus solely on growing in fellowship with you and those around me. I love you, I trust you, and I worship you. Amen.

Series Theme Verse:
Psalm 16:11
You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.

This post was written by Lori Tuckerman, Director of Content for the Daily LivingItOut.