FBCSPNC Sunday Morning Worship 12-14-25 11:00 AM

“Joy in the Lord” Psalm 146 What brings you joy? How do you describe joy? I remember speaking with someone years ago (well, it was more like listening to someone). This individual wanted to share with me a little bit about everything going on. Mostly, it was an opportunity for this person to complain. They complained about EVERYTHING. Their neighbor, the government, the neighborhood, people in general, you name it, this person was unhappy about it. After some moment of time had passed, I felt the urge to ask: “Are you happy about anything right now?” They paused, a good while. I continued and referenced joy and asked what brings them joy. My interruption about happiness, I believe, was Spirit-led, to show an opportunity to think from a new perspective, a Godly perspective. Happiness is not the same as joy, but it moved us in the right direction. At times, it feels like the weight of the world is on our shoulders, and we want to point the finger and complain about everything. In those moments, I ask myself, is everything and everyone doing something wrong? Or, maybe it’s me, and my perspective in this moment? The Psalmist brings joy front and center: 1-2 Hallelujah! O my soul, praise God! All my life long I’ll praise God, singing songs to my God as long as I live. You cannot say that unless you are joy-filled! May we be joy-filled this Advent season. As we focus on Joy this 3rd Sunday of Advent, I hope to see you then! See you then! Matt Riggsbee Senior Minister