Live in the Joy of the Lord

Pastor Dennis N Williams

Live in the Joy of the Lord

Copyright (c) 2012 by Pastor Dennis Williams. All rights reserved.

http://answerstolife.tv

Permission is granted to photocopy this book and give to your friends and associates as long there is no charge associated. This book may not be reprinted in book form or placed on the internet without the permission of the author.

Published by Answers to Life Publishing

Wholesale distribution by Createspace

All Scripture is taken from the King James Version of the Bible.

Dedication

This book is lovingly dedicated to my beautiful wife Isobel and our two wonderful children Dennis Jr and Chantelle who have brought so much joy and blessing into my life.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Dedication

What is the Joy of the Lord

Prayer of Salvation

Being Refreshed in the Lord

Speak the Word of God

Practice what you read

Examining Your Spiritual Health

Having the Mind of Christ

Recognize the Enemy of Your Joy

Finding Joy through Praise and Worship

Prayer of Rejoicing in the Lord

Sample Prayers: Fight for Your Joy

Prayer for a Holy Spirit Led Life

Revive and Restore Fellowship with The Lord

To Watch the Words of My Mouth

To Live Free from Worry, Doubt and Fear

Steps to Deliverance

Bibliography

What is the Joy of the Lord

These four words, "Be of good cheer," are from only one Greek word. It has been suggested that it might be rendered by the English term, "Cheerio"! Several times our Lord used this expression to encourage the fainting hearts of His disciples. When Christ Himself is concerned about us, there is no cause for worry or anxiety on our part. No matter how heavy the storm or how distressing the trials we have to face, He is there to cheer. Harry A. Ironside

People today are seeking many sources of Joy and Happiness. Some of these sources may appear to bring satisfaction temporarily. Lasting joy exists when everything around us is not so joyful. Lasting joy is that joy that is deep inside a person. This Joy that is present when things are not so joyful.

Webster's New World Dictionary defines joy as synonymous with "happy," "glad," and "cheerful." A thesaurus relates it to "exultation," "rapture," "satisfaction" and "pleasure."

Some people may be under the impression that joy and happiness are similar however, the difference is quite big. The word happiness is derived from the word happen. Happiness is felt when something good is happening to us right now. This type of happiness is only temporary and lasts temporarily. This is not lasting because as soon as something bad happens we are not happy anymore.

There is what may be called an inward joy. This inward joy can only come from knowing and trusting in God. Happiness on the other hand my come because of some enjoyable event or situation. Happiness is unpredictable and cannot be trusted. However, inward joy will be steady as long as we continue to trust in the Lord. For example: an inward joy is lasting and can overcome discouragement whereas happiness will just cover up this discouragement temporarily.

Psalms 4:7: Thou has put gladness in my heart, more that in the time that their corn and their wine increased.

Happiness versus Joy

Psalms 16:9: Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope.

Joy in Heaven when One Sinner Repents

Luke 15:9-10 And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost. 10 Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.

According to the Bible, having joy is possible even in tribulation:

2 Corinthians 7:4: Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.

Joy stays in our heart no matter what is going on around us. With this in mind we must recognize that joy comes from being with God. Jesus is the source of our joy and He will be there with us when even our loved ones have forsaken us.

Fruit of the Spirit

Joy is also considered one of the nine Fruits of the Spirit. We are known as Christians by our fruit. This fruit is spiritual and is grown in our lives through putting our trust and hope in the Lord Jesus Christ on a daily basis .The growth of this fruit can also be improved through the study and practice of the Bible.

Jesus said in the Bible that Christians are known by the fruit that they produce. Being joyful in your innermost being is something that is just there and should not have to be chased after as in the happiness that the things of the world may bring. There are a number of scripture that show that the joy of Christians arises from sources other than those pursued by the world.

Acts 2:46: And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,

1 Thessalonians 1:6: And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost.

Psalm 16:11: Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.

There is fullness that will be present in the innermost being of a person that dedicates themselves to the Lord. Before we go any further, if you are reading this book right now and you are not sure that you know the Lord the way that you want to, let’s just say a prayer to get to know that Lord and to get closer to Him. This prayer may be repeated even if said in the past.

Just say this prayer with me:

Prayer of Salvation

Lord Jesus I want to get to know you and have you in my life. I acknowledge you as Lord of my life and I am sorry for all the sins that I and all my forefathers connected to me have committed. Lord Jesus I repent of all these sins and ask you to forgive me. I ask you to come and live in my heart and be my personal Saviour. I promise to read the Bible so that I may learn more of You. I also ask you to fill me with the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in other tongues and I will praise and serve you now and forever Amen.

If you have never said this prayer, you are making the first step of entering into the joy of the Lord.

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Being Refreshed in the Lord

As Christians there will come a time when there will be a need for refreshing. That word refreshed means to be renewed and restored.

Romans 15:32: That I may come unto you with joy by the will of God, and may with you be refreshed.

In this busy world of running here and there in the rat race not to mention the “grind stone”, we will need refreshing and encouragement. This fact also applies to people that work in the ministry. There will be periods when refreshing and encouragement will be needed. Sometimes this may even have to be done alone. The Bible says that David encouraged himself in the Lord. There are many trials and tribulations in this world. Nonetheless, through the Word of God we can be renewed and refreshed and have our joy restored.

When we are in fellowship with true Christians, being refreshed is not a difficult task. Christians that are joined together in the bond of love and peace will find refreshing in several ways.

 Prayer: Corporate prayer in a church can be very powerful can certainly cause a refreshing in the Spirit. The Holy Spirit moves very powerfully in a prayer meeting. When we wait on the Lord in prayer, we will not only be spiritually refreshed but also receive anointing for ministry.

 Fellowship: Being in the proper fellowship as a Christian can also bring a refreshing to your spirit. After being in the work force all week there is nothing more refreshing than being in a fellowship with people that love and respect you for who you are in Christ.

 Ministering to one another: People of like spirit in a fellowship can also minister to one another. This ministry can include the laying on of hands and prayers for specific needs. Deliverance healing and spiritual refreshing can come when God’s people are in one accord. This refreshing will bring the joy of the Lord.

 Through Friendship: True friends in the Lord can be instant refreshment. Sometimes people will have the joy of Lord when you may not. This joy can be shared with you while you are in the company of this friend in Christ.

There are many scriptures in the Bible that speak of refreshment. Here are a few:

John 7:37–39: In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.38He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. 39(But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)

 These scriptures define the blessedness of being filled with the Holy Spirit. Those who are filled with the Spirit will become channels of spiritual refreshment as they minister with confidence to others.

Psalm 133:1-3: Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! 2 It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments; 3As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.

The psalmist sees Mt. Hermon as the source of cool, invigorating moisture for distant mountains. Again the dew typifies the Holy Spirit, carrying refreshment from united brethren to the ends of the earth. No one can measure how far-reaching is the influence of believers who walk in fellowship with God and with one another.

 To reiterate, unity of the brethren brings refreshment. The Bible says, “It is like the dew of Hermon, descending upon the mountains of Zion.” The psalmist sees Mt. Hermon as the source of cool, invigorating moisture for distant mountains. Again the dew in these scriptures represents the Holy Spirit, carrying refreshment from united brethren to the ends of the earth. When Christians come together in unity no one can measure the joy that will be experienced and how far-reaching the influence of believers who walk in fellowship with God and with one another.

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Speak the Word of God

In order to enjoy the benefits of Christianity, the Christian must practice doing what the Bible says to do. The Bible says to call those things that be not as though they were.

Romans 4:17 :( As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were.

John 6:63: It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.

The words that are spoken from our mouths have a huge effect on us. In other words the words that we speak can shape our lives and determine how the joy of the Lord will be increased in our lives.

For example many Christians just automatically speak what comes up in the brain. This is dangerous according to these scriptures. For instance if a person was to say “I am not good and will never amount to anything” these words will become life and try to take effect in the person’s life. There is a saying: “You are what you eat”. Well according to these scriptures we “are what we speak”. Words have so much power and should not just come forth without rhyme or reason.

The mind has to be renewed in order to speak the Word of God, instead of our own words or the words that come up in our mind. This renewal is a spiritual renewal that happens through reading the Bible on a daily basis. When I say read the Bible on a daily basis, this means starting out small and then growing in the reading and studying of the Bible. The new Christian may want to just start off reading one or two pages of scripture per day. Before reading the Bible a short prayer should be prayed.

Sample Prayer:

Father in the name of Jesus I ask you to open up my understanding of the scriptures as I read them. I ask you Lord to renew my mind on a daily basis so that I may speak your Word over my life instead of my own words. I cover my mind right now with the Power of the Holy Spirit so that the Bible can be made clear to me in Jesus name-Amen.

Just say a prayer similar to this every time that you read the Bible and you will be successful in your growth in the understanding of the Bible. Do not be surprised that when you first began to read the Bible that there does not seem to be any sense to be made out of what you are reading. On that note: there is one important thing that must be brought out. The King James Version of the Bible is highly recommended as the choice of Bible to read. This is due to the translation is the closest to the original Greek translation. Granted the new reader may have a difficult time understanding what is said, this is normal and will pass as you prayerfully read the Bible. Other translations of the Bible have lost some of the key meaning of the original translation due to attempting to simplify the reading of the Bible.

Remember! The King James Version is recommended.

Practice what you read

After reading the Bible begin to practice speaking out loud some of the scripture that you have read. For example: The Bible says that we are more than conquerors in Jesus Christ and I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me.

Romans 8:37: Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

You can pray like this: Father your Word says that I am more than a conqueror through You. I speak that I am more than a conqueror in the Lord in Jesus name-Amen

Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Pray like this: Lord your Word says that I can do all things through Jesus Christ. I can get a new job because I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me. I can walk in the joy of the Lord because I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me in Jesus name- Amen.

When we read the Bible then incorporate the Words of the Bible into our own language, we are changing the way that we speak and our minds are being renewed at the same time!

We are also being obedient to the Bible as we read the passage that states “Be ye doers and not hearers only”. This practicing the Word of God comes little by little on a daily basis and we will be successful. Knowing what the Word of God says through reading and practicing what is read will bring splendor and joy into a person’s life.

The Bible is the inspired Word of God. There were 40 different writers chosen to write these “God breathed” words. The following are scriptures that show that the Bible was inspired by God Himself.

1 Corinthians 2:13: Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.

Hebrews 1:1: God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets.

Galatians 1:11-12: 11But I certify you, brethren that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. 12For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.

Psalms 68:11: The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it.

When we “practice” speaking the Word of God against all of our heavy and burdensome situations that arise, then we will begin to experience the joy that is promised to us in the Word of God.

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Examining Your Spiritual Health

Christianity is basically like anything else in this world. You will get the most benefit as you apply the principles of God in your life. When we depend on our own intellect (like most human beings do) we may find that we come up lacking. Our human intellect will be a lot more powerful and beneficial to us as we submit ourselves to the Lord. We as human beings are so used to living in the fleshy realms. Our job, family, and recreation commitments can cause us to neglect our spiritual lives. This neglect can be a hindrance to finding out who we are in Jesus Christ. Your spiritual health is essential to your joy in the Lord. Make a commitment to yourself and to the Lord to spend daily time in His Holy Word and in prayer.

What is Spiritual Health?

We can look at Spiritual Health almost in the same way as we do our regular health. If we are not taking care of ourselves such as eating properly, getting the proper rest and exercise, our bodies will respond accordingly. The same applies in the spirit realm. As we read our Bibles, stay in fellowship with fellow Christians and with the Lord, we will be strong spiritually and the joy of the Lord will flow naturally in our lives. In addition to this our faith levels will be high and we will be able to soar on wings as eagles and have the faith to move mountains. These are benefits to living a spiritually nurtured Christian life.

Furthermore, if we allow the Bible to work in our lives we will truly be transformed physically and spiritually. There are several scriptures that show the Bible as a transforming source in the life of a Christian.

1Peter 2:2: As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word that ye may grow thereby.

Romans 1:16: It is the power of God unto salvation.

John 17:17: Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

Hebrews 4:12: For the word of God is quick and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit and of the joints and marrow and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

Jeremiah 23:29: Is not my word like as a fire? Saith the Lord: and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces.

The following is an example of how the Bible has the power to transform a life.

And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry: Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners: of whom I am chief. 1 Timothy 1:12-15.

These scriptures just show no matter how terrible a person seems to be, the power of the Bible or Word of God is able to transform them into something that never existed before.

We should examine ourselves on a daily basis to attend to our spiritual health so that we do not find ourselves cold on the Lord. Once we grow cold in the things of the Lord we may find that our joy and in the Lord may have decreased.

Having the Mind of Christ

Philippians 2:5: Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.

The Bible says that we can truly have the mind of Christ. This is a gem in the Word of God that most Christians will just read and not get the full revelation. However, this scripture lived on a daily basis will truly transform a life.

We are born with a mind given to us by the Lord. This mind is trained at an early age to think a certain way according to what we have learned in school and from those around us. This type of learned behavior goes on throughout our lives causing our minds to be “programmed” to the ways of man and of this world. Our feelings, emotions, and all our thinking patterns are learned through our surroundings and even the examples of others.

Whether we were raised in a home with a good set of morals and ethics or one that was unruly and dysfunctional, our minds still need to be renewed when we become a Christian. We just cannot afford to have the same thinking patterns that we “always had” while we were growing up. This spiritual truth concerning the mind has to come as revelation to a Christian. You see, most Christians read this scripture about the mind of Christ, believe it and preach it, however , never really get the “light bulb” that lights up and realizes that this scripture has to be implemented in order to work. In other words, in order to have the mind of Christ, your mind HAS to be changed and restructured from the way that you always thought and even our very attitudes must be changed and renewed. This is a daily ongoing process that the born again Christian must “walk out” daily. This scripture of “having the mind of Christ” does not just happen in a believer’s life.

One way of having the mind of Christ is to confess the scriptures. These scriptures are confessed on a daily basis as a way of changing the way that you think. Jesus said “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh”. So one may ask how these things get into the heart so that they can be spoken out of my mouth. The answer is “through the mind”. This link of mind, heart and mouth can be godly or ungodly. The choice is up to the Christian. The thoughts and words that come out of our mouths will shape our lives and cause us to be a success or failure. We must think of things that will edify or build up our lives and push the things out of our minds that will bring negativity and bad behaviors into our lives. Unfortunately, these types of bad attitudes and behaviors not only affect the Christian, but also those around them such as family friends and co-workers. Taking charge of your mind and tongue is the secret to living in the joy of the Lord when everything around you is crumbling. Having the mind of Christ will cultivate the thoughts that will build your life rather than tear it down. Keep your mind off pass hurts as the Lord renews your mind. Move forward and do not think in the past. Train your mind on a daily basis to have the “Mind of Christ” and your tongue to be under the subjection of the Holy Spirit.

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Recognize the Enemy of Your Joy

Every Christian needs to realize that there are enemies to your joy and sometimes we are our own worst enemies. Yes we can be hindrances to our own joy and happiness. One of the biggest enemies to our joy is Sin. Yes, sin is a major joy stealer and sin in most instances presents itself as pleasure.

When we search the Bible we can see a man named David that showed the perfect example of this deadly enemy. The Bible shows David a man after God’s own heart.

Acts 13:22: And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave their testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfill all my will.

From these scriptures you can see that a person can feel that they may have lost their place with the Lord through growing cold or even committing a sin of adultery as David did. However, we must remember that God is able to restore us when we fall if we are repentant of what we have done. Moreover, some Christians believe that the Grace from God is just a way of committing sins and automatically receiving forgiveness. This is not altogether true! God always looks on our hearts and the motives of our heart. When we are truly sorry for what we have done, He will remove from our lives the powers and influence of (Satan) the evil one. Then we will receive the strength from the Spirit of the Living God to be restored to our place with the Lord.

The Bible says to count it all joy when we fall into many temptations in James 1:2-4. We can make it through trials as we put our trust in the Lord. However, when we are not sure if we want serve the Lord, trials and tribulations can tear us down. However we can rest assured that the Lord by His grace does not give up on us.

The Grace of God is that favor that we cannot earn from the Lord. Satan will attempt to constantly remind the Christian of their past deeds. The Bible says that sin is separated from us as far as the east is from the west when we are truly sorry and earnestly seek the Lord’s forgiveness. Then we should forget the sin because God forgets them. When we are constantly thinking of the past wrongs we have done, there is no way that we can live in the Joy of the Lord. We must let these past wrongs and hurts go in Jesus name!

Here is what the Bible says about the favor and Grace of God:

2 Peter 3:18: But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever. Amen

2 Corinthians 8:9: For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.

2 Corinthians 12:9: And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

Yes the grace of God gives us power to accept the gifts that the Lord has given us. We can overcome the enemies of our joy by trusting and growing in the Lord on a daily basis.

The Power of the Flesh

The Flesh is probably one of the most misunderstood parts of a Christian’s Character. The flesh is that part of the person that is in rebellion to God. Flesh does what it wants and when it wants. A Christian must get flesh under subjection in order to live in the joy of the Lord.

In Galatians 5:17-21: Paul says that For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit , and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. 18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulation, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

These works can further be defined as:

 Adultery: is unfaithfulness in the marriage relationship

 Fornication: is unlawful sexual intercourse or intercourse outside of marriage

 Uncleaness: is moral evil sensuality

 Lewdness: is shameless conduct involving absence of restraint; obscene or indecent.

 Idolatry: is not only the worship of Idols, but also the immorality that accompanies demon worship. Idolatry is also anything that replaces your time with the Lord in your life. Ask Jesus He will begin to show you day by day.

 Sorcery: is witchcraft, the Greek word being related to drugs. Because drugs were used in sorcery, the word also came to mean intercourse with evil spirits, or the use of magic spells.

 Hatred: means strong feelings of malice directed toward individuals. Whenever you have bad thoughts against someone that may have hurt you in the past, push these thoughts out of your mind right away by covering your mind with the Blood of Jesus. You would verbally say “ I cover my mind with the Blood of Jesus, until the thought goes away.

Practices saying this until you know in your heart that it works for YOU!

 Contentions: are discord, variance, and quarrels.

 Jealousies: distrust suspicions, wanting something someone else has

 Wrath is outbursts of hot anger or passions

 Selfish ambitions: are self-centered strivings to be “number one” even at other people’s expense

 Dissensions: are separations caused by disagreements

 Heresies: are sects formed by men with self-willed opinions that are contrary to the Word of God

 Envy: is displeasure at the success or prosperity of others

 Murders: are unlawful killing of others. We can “murder” someone with our tongue through gossip and slander as well.

 Drunkenness: refers to intoxication caused by strong drink

 Revelries: are riotous gatherings for entertainment, accompanied by drunkenness.

We must know that participation in the works of the flesh will only bring sorrow and not joy. Pray and ask the Lord to come and live in your heart. If Jesus is already in your heart, ask Him if you are participating in the works of the flesh. Your joy will increase as the works of the flesh decrease.

Strongholds of Unforgiveness and Bitterness

The strongholds of unforgiveness and bitterness will absolutely prevent a Christian from living in the Joy of the Lord. There are many people walking around today holding grudges against someone that has wronged them. This could be a church or family member a co-worker or maybe even a close friend. We are commanded in the Bible to forgive those that hurt us. This should be done immediately as to not allow these things to take root in our minds and hearts and eventually rule our lives. Once we forgive somebody of the wrongs that have been done to us we have been obedient to the Word of God and we can start the healing process inside of us. Forgiveness is not a feeling. Forgiveness is a command that the Lord gives us. Forgiveness also is for the person that has been hurt and not for the person that did the hurting. To restore the Joy that has been stolen from your life, begin to search your heart to see if there is any hurt or feeling that you have been betrayed. Once you have discovered that these things are there, say a prayer of forgiveness at once. Then ask the Lord to deliver you from the torment of Bitterness and Unforgivess.

Sample Prayer of Forgiveness

The Walk in Forgiveness Prayer

Father in the name of Jesus, I come before you and make a fresh commitment to You to live in peace and harmony, with those around me. This is to include my church family, regular family friends and co-workers.

I renounce all bitterness, resentment, envying, strife, and unkindness in any way and ask you Lord to forgive me. I command the tormentors that are attached to these things to leave my mind and body now in the name of Jesus. (Take a deep breath and breathe them out) Lord I also ask that you to forgive all those that have hurt or betrayed me in any way. I also forgive them Lord and will commit to pray for them in Jesus name.

Father I want to live in the Joy of the Lord Jesus Christ and be in right standing with Him. From now on Lord I am committed to walk in the Love of God and to keep myself in the Love of God.

Lord your Word even says that I have the love of God in my heart and mind that has been put there through the power of the Holy Ghost. Let the fruit of joy come forth in my life Lord so that I may “live in the joy of the Lord”, in Jesus name –Amen.

Scripture References for Forgiveness

Romans 12:16-18: Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. 17 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. 18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.

Romans 12:10: Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another.

1 Peter 3:8: Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous.

1 Peter 3:11-12: Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it. 12 For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.

Philippians 2:2: Fulfill ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.

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Finding Joy through Praise and Worship

Praise is focused on God! Praise involves a person that loves the Lord and wants to get closer to Him. The person that is worshipping the Lord begins to concentrate on who the Lord is and how Great He is! The Lord wants to bless us and fill us with joy as we praise Him!

Let us look at Psalm 103 which really gives a clear description of who God is and His Nature. This psalm also an illustration God’s many qualities and how these qualities affect the worshipper’s life and bond with God.

Psalm 103:1-22 Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me bless his holy name.   2 Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:   3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;   4 Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;   5 Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.  6 The LORD executeth righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed.   7 He made known his ways unto Moses, his acts unto the children of Israel.   8 The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.   9 He will not always chide: neither will he keep his anger forever.   10 He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.   11 For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.   12 As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.   13 Like as a father pitieth his children, so the LORD pitieth them that fear him.   14 For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.   15 As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth.   16 For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more.   17 But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children's children;   18 To such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them.  19 The LORD hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.   20 Bless the LORD, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word.   21 Bless ye the LORD, all ye his hosts; ye ministers of his, that do his pleasure.   22 Bless the LORD, all his works in all places of his dominion: bless the LORD, O my soul.

This Psalm tells us to praise and glorify the Lord. We are encouraged to bless the Lord for His mercy and for the consistency of His mercy. Our days are numbered on this earth. So we should be appreciative and thank the Lord for the things He has done for us and sometimes even when we did not deserve them. The Bible says that even when we were still in our sins the Lord went about to seek redemption for mankind. He sought redemption for us to recover us the decay and separation from Him for an eternity. He fills us with new joy and life and we are restored to the favor of God and for this we should praise the Lord.

We also notice that David is not making any request to God for anything in this Psalm, he is just praising him.

Other Psalms of Praise by David

Psalm 34: David praises the Lord even when forced to leave his family. David knew that the Lord would keep him away from his oppressors.

Psalm 63: In this psalm David perceived that he was in a wilderness spiritually. David thirsted for refuge and the presence of the Lord.

Psalm 60: David praises the Lord for a tremendous victory in war over the Moabites, Syrians and the Philistines. Also see (1 Kings 11 and 2 Samuel 8)

Psalm 51 David is remorseful and sorry for his sin of adultery with Bathsheba.

David was truly a man after God’s own heart. Nonetheless David was just like you and I a human being made of flesh and bone. David also thirsted after the heart of God in Praise and worship.

When we praise the Lord, Jesus can work with us to soften our hardened hearts. Every Christian HAS to spend time in praise and worship both in Church and personal worship. Praise and worship is truly a vehicle to living in the Joy of the Lord. Repeat the following prayer on a daily basis and allow the prayer to get deep into your heart and bring revelation.

Say this prayer to rejoice and to encourage your Joy in the Lord.

Prayer of Rejoicing in the Lord

Father I rejoice in the day that you have made. I also rejoice in You now and forever. Again I say that I rejoice in You O Lord. Father I am rejoicing because Jesus is my Lord.

Father your Word says that you also rejoice over me. Praise the Lord! I am bought with the Blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. I have a song in my heart and everlasting joy is upon my head. I claim that all sorrow and mourning shall flee from me. The song of joy will be my banner. I have liberty in Jesus Christ because I have His Spirit in me. I will walk in that liberty by the grace of God.

Father I open my mouth now and praise you with all my heart. The spirit of Joy is in my heart and on my lips. I am filled with the power of the Holy Spirit. I speak in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs and make a joyful melody to the Lord my God. My mind is cheerful and healed and my heart is happy. When people look upon me or come in my presence they shall see and feel the joy of the Lord also.

Father thank you for teaching me how to seek you in prayer. Father I believe in Jesus name that much fruit will be produced through these prayers. Lord your joy in me shall be overflowing, complete, full and abundant in the name of Jesus. Your Joy truly is my strength. I will count it all joy when I enter tests trials and tribulations. You are my strength and my light.

Lord you have given me the complete victory in the name of Jesus Christ. The powers of darkness and Satan have no power over me because of the Blood Sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Lord you have placed Satan under my feet. I have peace and joy unspeakable and full of glory. Praise the name of the Lord in Jesus name –Amen.

Scripture references for Joy and Rejoicing

Psalm 118:24: This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.

Philippians 4:4: Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, rejoice.

Philippians 3:1: Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe.

Ephesians 6:10: Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

2 Corinthians 5:7: For we walk by faith, not by sight.

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Sample Prayers: Fight for Your Joy

At times during your Christian walk we must fight and contend for our faith. The rigorous day to day routine, dealings with family member, our own personal struggles can put a strain on our fellowship with the Lord and thereby cause us to not have as much joy in our lives. The following prayers can be used to enhance or establish your Christian walk and to get closer with the Lord. You may use this prayer for yourself or to pray for others. Always remember to pray for yourself first and get strong in the Lord then you will be strong enough to pray for others. Contend for the faith! Fight for your Joy!

Prayer for a Holy Spirit Led Life

Father because of the cross of the Lord Jesus Christ I am made free from the law of sin and death. I am filled with the Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus. I am led by your standards and not the standards of the powers of darkness or of the flesh. The Holy Spirit has free reign to live and guide my life in Jesus name.

Father I am more than a conqueror and I have complete victory through the Lord Jesus who loved me enough to die for me. I will not be overcome by evil but I will conquer evil with good and with the Power of Jesus Christ. I put on the battle armor of light and will not be pushed around by the powers of hell or my flesh

Lord I confess that I will be a doer of the Word of God and not a hearer only. Grant that I might be filled with all wisdom and sings psalms and hymns and spiritual songs. Father I long to be gentle, courteous, full of compassion, willing to listen to the truth and filled with the fruit and gifts of the Spirit. Most of all be subject to the power of the Holy Spirit that is working in me night and day. I will stand strong against the wiles of the evil one and put him to flight using the name of Jesus and the weapons of warfare

Thank you Lord in Jesus name for your most holy anointing to serve, submit, and live for You in Jesus name-Amen.

Scripture references for a “Holy Spirit Led Life”.

Romans 8:2,4,9,14,31,37

Romans 12:21

Romans 13: 12, 14

James 1:22

James 3:17

Hebrews 4:7-8

Colossians 2:10

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Revive and Restore Fellowship with The Lord

Father I know that you look over Your Word to perform it. Lord I am a Child of the King, taught by the most Holy Spirit of God. I am looking to You for all the answers to my life. Lord I am seeking to be obedient to Your Word and to submit myself wholly and Holy to You in body, soul, mind and spirit. I also seek himilty in front of Your throne and reject all pride in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Father God, I am also asking that you heal me of any wounds in my Spirit. Lord I am asking you also to purge me from the powers of the flesh and of sin so that I may stand blameless before your Throne. I place every wicked and evil work at the feet of Jesus in repentance and ask for Your grace and mercy to stand. Lord I know that you are able to restore and comfort me like no other person or thing in this present world.

Lord Father, I know that Jesus is the author and finisher of my faith. I know that as long as I trust in the power of the name of Jesus and His Holy Word I will not be cast aside and destroyed. Greater is He that is in me than He that is in the world

Lord if there is any secret sin such as sexual perversions or sexual Idolatry, I lay them at your feet and renounce the powers of them and repent of these sins. I also command the evil powers to flee from me. As I take a deep breath and breathe out, I command all these influences behind any secret sins to leave in Jesus name. You are bound and have no authority over me because of the Power of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Father thank You for filling me with the Holy Spirit that will replace all the negative in my life. May the Power of God fill me to overflowing so that I may live in the joy of the Lord in the mighty name of Jesus-Amen.

Scripture references for “Revive and Restore Fellowship with the Lord”

Jeremiah 1:12: Then said the LORD unto me, Thou hast well seen: for I will hasten my word to perform it.

John 6:45: It is written in the prophets, and they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me.

Matthew 18:18: Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.

1 John 5:16: If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it.

John 6:45: It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me.

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To Watch the Words of My Mouth

Father I turn to You for the strength to put a guard on my mouth. I am commanding every evil influence to get off of my tongue in the name of Jesus and I commit my tongue to leading and guidance of the Holy Spirit. Your Word reminds me that the tongue is a fire and a world of iniquity. I renounce all iniquity in my life in Jesus name. And release the rule and reign of my tongue to the power of the Holy Spirit.

In Jesus name I will pay attention to the thoughts that come in my head and will reject all negative thoughts in Jesus name. I clear my mind with the Blood of Jesus and renounce all evil thoughts. I forbid evil to fall into my heart and come out of my mouth in the name of Jesus. Father Your Word says that out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. I lay hold on the Word of God that my heart will be filled with the Word and love of God so that love can flow instead of evil. I confess that I will speak words that build up and bring joy instead of words that will tear down In the name of Jesus.

I speak that I am filled with the Power of God and able to resist all the wiles of the evil one. Every word that has been spoken that does not build up or edify, I cancel its assignment in the name of Jesus. May the words of Life follow me and my family all the days of our lives in Jesus name. I also cancel the assignment of any words that have been spoken against me or my family in Jesus name. Father I know that you are able to protect us in the name of Jesus. I Praise You right now that my words shall be holy and without blame as you grant me the grace and ability to stand strong in Jesus name-Amen.

Scripture references for “To Watch the Words of my Mouth.”

Ephesians 5:4: Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.

James 3:6: And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.

Proverbs 21:23: Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.

John 6:63: It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.

Philemon 1:6: That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.

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To Live Free from Worry, Doubt and Fear

Father You alone have delivered me from fear, doubt, worry and all other hindrances to my joy. I am determined by the power of the Holy Spirit to live a life that is free of fear, doubt, and worry. Your Son Jesus has paid the price for my salvation as well as for my freedom in Jesus Christ. This is my heritage which I claim now in Jesus name. I renounce the powers of fear, doubt, and worry in the name of Jesus and I command you to leave me in Jesus name. Lord I repent and I know that You hear me and forgive me.

Father I come to Jesus and lay my burdens on Him because His yoke is easy and His burden is light. I know that I cannot carry heavy burdens so I release them right now into the care of Jesus Christ. I command all of them to release me right now in Jesus name. Lord Your Spirit dwells in me in an abundant measure and is overflowing from the heart and life in the name of Jesus. You will not let me stumble or fall as long as my mind is stayed on You in Jesus name.

Father I know that you look upon me as a grasshopper but You know every hair that is counted on my head and You are concerned for my every need and desires.

Your Word says to have the mind of Christ. I commit myself to have the mind of Christ and cast down imaginations and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of Christ. Lord the Bible says that I should think on things that build me up. Lord I believe that on a daily basis my mind shall be renewed to conform to the Word of God.

Let the meditations of my heart and the words of my mouth be pleasing in Your sight dear Lord. In Jesus name-Amen.

Scripture references for “To Live Free From Worry, Doubt, and Fear.”

Matthew 6:25-27: Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? 26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? 27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?

Matthew 6:34: Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.

John 14:27: Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Colossians 3:15: And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

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In Conclusion: As a person becomes a Christian there will always be some type of warfare to walk through. However, with the Joy of the Lord in your heart the walk will be lighter.

Additionally, one must realize that Christians also may need a deep ministry that comes only through the deliverance ministry. Sometimes this type of ministry is needed prior to Joy becoming a reality in a Christian’s life. Remember! If you have no minister to perform deliverance over you, JESUS IS YOUR DELIVERER! This is a truth that all Christians must get into their hearts. I am listing the “Steps to Deliverance” in closing of this book. May the Lord Bless You in Jesus Name-Amen!

After studying these steps please ensure that you follow them in the order that they are given for the best results.

Steps to Deliverance

 Confess sin and make sure that you are a Born Again Saved Christian by saying the “Prayer of Salvation”.

 Ask the Lord to fill you with the Holy Spirit.

 Repent of and renounce all evil, including but not limited to: Witchcraft, occult bondage, ungodly soul ties and others that the Lord shows you. Repent of them even to the tenth generation of your ancestors.

Psalms 139: 21-22: Do not I hate them, O LORD, that hate thee? and am not I grieved with those that rise up against thee? 22I hate them with perfect hatred: I count them mine enemies.

 Make sure that you forgive others.

 Be honest with yourself, Jesus and the Deliverance minister (Psalms 51).

 Cast demons out in the name of Jesus. This would include all known spirits that the person is in bondage to and also ones that will be shown by the Holy Spirit.

Steps to Keeping your Deliverance

 Learn and practice your authority in the Lord Jesus Christ.

 Let Jesus be the Lord of your life in every area and yield yourself to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

 Be filled with the Holy Spirit (Baptism) and the Word of God.

Ephesians 5:18: And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;

 Devour the Word of God.

 Play the Word of God (audio) over your house 24 hours a day and seven days of week. This will help tremendously. Go to Audio Treasure.

 Practice putting on the Armor of God found in Ephesians 6:13-18.

Ephesians 6:13-18: Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; 15And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 17And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: 18Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

 Practice Binding and loosing prayers when you feel oppressed or under attack.

Sample Prayer:

I take authority over all spirits that are attacking me now in the name of Jesus and I bind you with the chains and fetters of God in Jesus name. I send you back to where you came from in Jesus name. I loose the Word of God over me and my family that says “I am more than a conqueror in Jesus Christ in Jesus name-Amen.

 Call the Deliverance Minister that was in charge of your deliverance if you feel you are overcome by evil spirits.

 Avoid sin at all costs

 Cultivate Christian fellowship with the people that understand what you went through in deliverance. This would include the Minister that delivered you in the name of Jesus.

 Remember Jesus is your deliverer! Ultimately trust in Jesus and He will deliver you when there is no one around.

In conclusion I would like to personally thank you for reading my book. May the Lord bless you! I also pray that the Lord will give each reader revelation knowledge in the Word of God to be able to apply the Word of God in their lives at all times. We come against the power of the enemy that would attempt to steal the Word of God or the things of God from the readers of this book in Jesus Name. According to the Word of God we also loose eyes to see and ears to hear what the Spirit of the Living God is saying in Jesus name-Amen.

Visit Pastor Dennis at Answers to Life !

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Bibliography

Hayford, Jack W. ;   Rosenberger, Herman: Appointed to Leadership : God's Principles for Spiritual Leaders. Nashville : Thomas Nelson, 1997, c1994 (Spirit-Filled Life Kingdom Dynamics Study Guides)

MacDonald, William ;   Farstad, Arthur: Believer's Bible Commentary  : Old and New Testaments. Nashville : Thomas Nelson, 1997, c1995, S. Ps 133:3

Encyclopedia of 15,000 Illustrations: Signs of the Times.

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5

Table of Contents

Copyright

Dedication

What is the Joy of the Lord

Prayer of Salvation

Being Refreshed in the Lord

Speak the Word of God

Practice what you read

Examining Your Spiritual Health

Having the Mind of Christ

Recognize the Enemy of Your Joy

Finding Joy through Praise and Worship

Prayer of Rejoicing in the Lord

Sample Prayers: Fight for Your Joy

Prayer for a Holy Spirit Led Life

Revive and Restore Fellowship with The Lord

To Watch the Words of My Mouth

To Live Free from Worry, Doubt and Fear

Steps to Deliverance

Bibliography

Table of Contents

Copyright

Dedication

What is the Joy of the Lord

Prayer of Salvation

Being Refreshed in the Lord

Speak the Word of God

Practice what you read

Examining Your Spiritual Health

Having the Mind of Christ

Recognize the Enemy of Your Joy

Finding Joy through Praise and Worship

Prayer of Rejoicing in the Lord

Sample Prayers: Fight for Your Joy

Prayer for a Holy Spirit Led Life

Revive and Restore Fellowship with The Lord

To Watch the Words of My Mouth

To Live Free from Worry, Doubt and Fear

Steps to Deliverance

Bibliography