My Joy Shall Not Be Stolen At The End Of The Year Series

MY JOY SHALL NOT BE STOLEN AT THE END OF THE YEAR

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Nehemiah 8:10

Key Verse: “Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.” (Nehemiah 8:10)

Supporting Texts: Psalm 16:11; John 15:11; Romans 15:13; Philippians 4:4; Isaiah 61:3

INTRODUCTION:

The end of the year is a season of reflection, evaluation, and anticipation. Many, however, approach it burdened with sorrow, fear, or disappointment, which diminishes the joy God intends for His children. Joy is not merely a feeling; it is a divine strength and an essential spiritual possession.

Satan often schemes to steal joy through challenges, unmet expectations, and setbacks. Yet Scripture assures believers that God Himself is the source and protector of lasting joy. No circumstance, human action, or spiritual attack has the ultimate authority to rob what God has given.

This message declares that your joy is anchored in God and will remain intact as you close the year and step into a new season.

1. JOY IS A DIVINE GIFT, NOT A TEMPORAL FEELING

Joy originates from God and surpasses external circumstances.

a) God gives joy that sustains the soul (John 15:11)

True joy is rooted in fellowship with Christ, independent of trials.

b) Joy is strength in adversity (Nehemiah 8:10)

Divine joy empowers believers to endure challenges without defeat.

c) God’s joy is unshakable (Psalm 16:11)

Joy flows from the presence of God, not from fleeting events.

d) The Holy Spirit produces joy (Galatians 5:22)

Joy is a fruit of the Spirit that cannot be stolen by external forces.

Biblical Example: Paul and Silas praised God in prison, and their joy led to miraculous release (Acts 16:25,26).

2. ENEMIES ATTEMPT TO STEAL JOY

Joy can be targeted through discouragement, failure, and manipulation.

a) Satan seeks to bring grief and despair (Job 1:21-22)

Adversaries aim to rob the believer of divine peace and happiness.

b) Unfulfilled expectations can mislead the heart (Ecclesiastes 3:4)

God’s timing is perfect, but impatience can invite temporary sorrow.

c) Criticism and betrayal affect emotional joy (Psalm 41:9)

Human actions may attempt to diminish joy, but they cannot permanently succeed.

d) Disappointments challenge faith but do not destroy joy (Habakkuk 3:17-18)

Joy is maintained when anchored in God, even amidst unmet desires.

Biblical Example: Hannah faced rejection and ridicule yet maintained faith, resulting in the birth of Samuel and everlasting joy (1 Samuel 1:10-20).

3. THE STRATEGY TO PRESERVE JOY

Believers must actively guard and nurture their joy.

a) Focus on God, not circumstances (Isaiah 26:3)

Mental alignment preserves joy regardless of external pressures.

b) Cultivate thanksgiving and praise (Psalm 100:1-2)

Gratitude and worship fortify joy.

c) Release burdens to God (1 Peter 5:7)

Casting cares prevents them from poisoning the heart.

d) Meditate on God’s promises (Romans 15:13)

Anchoring the mind in Scripture maintains spiritual joy.

Biblical Example: David declared joy in God even during persecution, finding strength and victory in His presence (Psalm 28:7).

4. JOY AS A COVENANTAL POSSESSION

Joy is not negotiable; it is a covenant from God.

a) The joy of the Lord is your strength (Nehemiah 8:10)

Divine joy empowers and sustains you.

b) Joy is tied to God’s faithfulness (Psalm 126:5-6)

God’s promises ensure rejoicing even after trials.

c) Joy accompanies obedience (Isaiah 58:14)

Walking in God’s ways results in lasting satisfaction.

d) Joy prepares for a prosperous future (Proverbs 10:28)

Joy sets the stage for victory in coming seasons.

Biblical Example: The Israelites celebrated the completion of the wall with great joy, reflecting God’s faithfulness and covenantal blessings (Nehemiah 12:43).

5. DECLARE AND PROTECT YOUR JOY

Spiritual vigilance and declarations secure joy.

a) Speak life and joy over your circumstances (Proverbs 18:21)

Words have power to reinforce spiritual joy.

b) Reject every attempt to steal your joy (Psalm 37:4)

Claim authority over negative influences.

c) Stand firm in God’s promises (2 Corinthians 1:20)

God’s faithfulness guarantees enduring joy.

d) Maintain consistent worship and prayer (Philippians 4:4)

Joy thrives in a heart that continuously acknowledges God.

Biblical Example: Paul consistently rejoiced in Christ despite imprisonment, showing that joy is preserved by faith and spiritual focus (Philippians 1:12-14).

CONCLUSION:

Your joy is sacred and cannot be stolen if anchored in God. No matter the trials, disappointments, or manipulations faced this year, God’s joy is your strength and protection. Guard it, nurture it, and declare it daily.

As the year ends, stand firm and declare that your joy shall remain intact. Let your joy be a testimony of God’s faithfulness and the triumph of His Spirit in your life.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Father, thank You for the gift of Your joy in my life.

2. Lord, preserve my joy through every challenge.

3. Father, help me reject every attempt of the enemy to steal my joy.

4. Lord, fill my heart with unwavering rejoicing.