ReJOYce: Choose Joy

ReJOYce: Choose Joy | David Molver | 02 November 2025

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Scripture: John 15:1–11 | Psalm 16:11

Joy Isn’t Lost — It’s Waiting

Sometimes it feels like our joy has gone missing - like it’s sitting somewhere in the

garage of our lives, waiting for us to notice it again. In this week’s message,

reJOYce: Choose Joy, we were reminded that joy doesn’t just happen to us - it’s

something we choose. It’s not built on perfect circumstances but on a perfect

Saviour.

Connection Over Circumstance

In John 15, Jesus calls Himself the true vine and invites us to “remain” in Him. That

word means to stay connected - to make your home in Him. Just like a branch can’t

bear fruit on its own, we can’t experience lasting joy apart from Jesus. When we drift

from the Vine, joy dries up. But when we stay close, joy flows naturally.

In His Presence Is Fullness of Joy

Psalm 16:11 says, “You will fill me with joy in Your presence.” Joy has a location - it

lives in God’s presence. It’s not found in everything going right, but in knowing the

One who makes all things right. When God’s face shines toward us, we find peace,

confidence, and true joy.

Joy Is a Choice

1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 tells us to rejoice always. That’s not denial - it’s discipline.

Joy begins as obedience before it becomes emotion. Like Paul and Silas in prison,

we can praise before the breakthrough, knowing that joy often opens the door for

God to move.

Pruned for Purpose

Jesus said the Father prunes every fruitful branch so it will bear more fruit. Pruning is

never punishment - it’s preparation. Sometimes God cuts things back to make

room for something greater. Even in those seasons, we can hold onto joy, trusting

that His hand is kind.

How to Choose Joy

1. Pause in His presence – slow down and breathe.

2. Pray with gratitude – thankfulness grows joy.

3. Protect your connection – cut distractions that drain your spirit.

4. Pursue community – joy multiplies when shared.

The Overflow of Joy

Jesus’ promise is that “My joy may be in you, and your joy may be full.” That’s not

half-hearted happiness - it’s overflowing joy that comes from abiding in Him. So

whatever this week brings, don’t wait for joy to show up - choose it.

“You make known to me the path of life;

You fill me with joy in Your presence.” – Psalm 16:11

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Life Group Discussion Questions

1. Read Together

Scriptures: John 15:1–11 | Psalm 16:11

Take a few minutes to read the passages aloud as a group.

Discuss:

• What stands out to you most about joy in these verses?

• How does Jesus describe the relationship between “remaining in Him” and

joy?

2. Reflect

• Where do you notice your joy being drained or lost most easily?

• In what ways can pruning (God cutting things back) actually make room for

deeper joy?

3. Respond

• What would it look like for you to choose joy this week, even before you feel

it?

• Which of the practical steps from Sunday stood out to you most?

o Pause in His presence

o Pray with gratitude

o Protect your connection

o Pursue community

• How can you start doing that in your daily rhythm?

4. Rejoice

• Pray a simple prayer of gratitude for His joy, or

• Play a worship song like “Joy in the House of the Lord” or “Gratitude” and sing

together.