It is pleasing to God whenever thou rejoicest or laughest from the bottom of thy heart. --Martin Luther

Heart Prep: Read John 15:9-11

• Abide:  Accept / Act in accordance with. Jesus commands that his followers “abide” in his love.  How can you make sure your “actions” are aligned with His “love”?

• Jesus answers this question by saying “If you keep My commands, you will abide in my love”.  Do you find that keeping His commands is a burden, or a source of joy?  Why?

• Jesus states a powerful benefit to keeping his commands: “that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be full”.  Would you say you are “joyful” most of the time?

Deep Dive: Continue Reading Verses 12-17

• What is the greatest love of all?

• What is the difference between a friend and a servant?

• Why is it significant that Jesus calls us friends?

• Why is it significant that Jesus chose us, and not the other way around?

• Is it possible to obey Jesus’ commands and not love one another?

• Is it possible to have true joy and not be obedient?

• Is it possible to have true joy, but hate those around you?

I cannot even imagine where I would be today were it not for that handful of friends who have given me a heart full of joy. Let's face it, friends make life a lot more fun. -- Chuck Swindoll

After grief for sin there should be joy for forgiveness. -- AW Pink

Application: Read Philemon 1:4-7

• What was it about Philemon that gave Paul joy?

• Who plays this role in your life?

• Whose life do you play this role in?

• What expectations do you put on friends and family when it comes to making you happy?

• How does this compare to Paul?