Renewing Joy | Laura Gilbertson | July 24, 2022 “ 1 When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dreamed. 2 Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, ‘The LORD has done great things for them.’ 3 The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy. 4 Restore our fortunes, LORD, like streams in the Negev. 5 Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy. 6 Those who go out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with them.” Psalms 126 (NIV) PSALM 126 SINGS OF: • Joyful memories of God’s past faithfulness • Anticipated joy in a current season of need HOW IS JOY DIFFERENT THAN OTHER EMOTIONS? • Joy springs from our relationship with God, not our circumstances. • Joy often lives alongside discouragement, grief, confusion, or other pain. HOW CAN WE NURTURE JOY? • No need to perform happiness. • Celebrate when we experience God’s faithfulness in the big and small things. • Trust God will be faithful in the future, just as He has been in the past. • Adapt Psalm 126 to our lives.Renewing Joy | Laura Gilbertson | July 24, 2022 BIBLE READING PLAN Reading the Bible every day is a great way to grow in your faith. After you read, take time to journal or reflect on these questions: What does it say? What does it mean? How can I live this out today? On our website, under Publications, you can find online resources for reading through the Bible in one year: westwoodcc.org/publications READ PSALMS 126 1. What does this Psalm teach us about God? 2. What does this Psalm teach us about people? 3. How has God been faithful to you recently? 4. What truths have you been introduced to or reminded of this week? 5. How is God lifting your head with hope this week? 6. What does God have set before you that might be challenging? 7. How are you being prompted to respond to God this week? 8. How are you being prompted to respond to others this week? 9. What area of your life do you need to commit to growth? 10. What truths do you need to remind yourself of this week? SCAN HERE FOR THE FULL UP COMPANION GUIDE FOR THIS SERIESNext >