On the seventh day they rose early, at dawn, and marched around the city in the same manner seven times. It was only on that day that they marched around the city seven times. And at the seventh time, when the priests had blown the trumpets, Joshua said to the people, “Shout! For the Lord has given you the city. … So the people shouted, and the trumpets were blown. As soon as the people heard the sound of the trumpets, they raised a great shout, and the wall fell down flat; so the people charged straight ahead into the city and captured it.
Happiness does not come from immediate gratification. It is the satisfaction that comes only with long effort and accomplishment. Becoming happy requires us to learn to love working the plan, even when we are unsure of our purpose or how God will finally work things out. [hear sermon audio]
This week, take some time to go deeper. Use these scriptures and questions to reflect how you are seeking happiness through Christ.
Texts to read:
Questions to ponder:
- How did Rahab become apart of God’s plan for the Israelites?
- Imagine waiting in Rahab’s house as the Israelites marched around the wall. What do you think she and her family felt in those 7 days?
- How might God be calling you to be a part of God’s work in your community?
- What is difficult about strategic waiting?
Do and share:
- Identify something you feel called to do, a goal you want to work towards, and make a plan. Pray about each step and as you accomplish things, journal about your feelings and how you see God at work.
- Make a list of your questions about happiness. Share one on the Resolution: Happiness Event on our Facebook or tweet @dpumc with #happiness2018
Pastor's Notepad 