“They worshiped together at the Temple each day . . . praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people.”Acts 2:46-47 (NLT)
Do you think church ought to be fun? I do!
Worship is a celebration. It’s a festival, not a funeral. It’s a party for the kingdom of God. Joyful worship attracts non-believers to the church, because people are looking for joy!
There’s so much bad news in the world. But “gospel” means “good news,” not “bad news.” The gospel is good news that makes people joyful! So when you gather with other Christians, you can celebrate, not commiserate.
That’s what the early church did. Acts 2:46-47 says, “They worshiped together at the Temple each day . . . praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people” (NLT).
Notice two words there: “praising” and “enjoying.” Their worship was happy! God has given us lots of emotions to express, and one place we can express our happiness is in worship.
As Christians, we have our past forgiven, a purpose for living, and a home in heaven. If that doesn’t make you happy, I don’t know what will! As Peter said on the day the church was born, “Because of this, my heart will be glad, my words will be joyful, and I will live in hope” (Acts 2:26 CEV).
We don’t have to manufacture that joy on our own. Peter quoted King David, saying, “You have shown me the paths that lead to life, and your presence will fill me with joy” (Acts 2:28 GNT). When you know your path (God’s purpose for your life) and you feel God’s presence, you’re automatically filled with joy.
But it’s true that sometimes joy can fade. In that case, there are a couple of things to do. First, you can pray like David did, “Restore to me the joy of your salvation” (Psalm 51:12 NLT).
And the next answer may surprise you: You can practice generosity! That’s what the early Christians did: “All the believers . . . shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need” (Acts 2:44-45 NLT).
And how did they do it? “With great joy and generosity” (Acts 2:46 NLT).
Real Christianity is Good News for everyone. And that Good News makes you joyful!
Rick Warren is an innovative pastor, renowned author, and global influencer known for founding Saddleback Church, the Purpose Driven Network, the PEACE Plan, and Hope for Mental Health. He has written several best-selling books, including The Purpose Driven Life, which has sold over 35 million copies in 200 languages. Time magazine named Warren the most influential spiritual leader in America and one of the 100 most influential people in the world. Since stepping down from the lead pastor role at Saddleback in 2022, Warren has continued to inspire people through his Daily Hope Devotional and podcast Pastor Rick’s Daily Hope. His first book in a decade, Created to Dream, was released in April 2023.
For more Daily Hope with Rick Warren, please visit pastorrick.com!
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