Joy Group Guide

Discussion Questions

Choose the questions for your group; no pressure to use all of them.

Start Off

• When you hear the word “joy,” what comes to mind? An emotion, a season of life, a memory?

• On a scale of 1-10, how would you describe your current joy level? (No explanation required unless you want to share)
  
  

Reflect on God's Word

• Eric challenged the idea that God is a “joy-killer.” Where do you think that perception comes from, whether in culture or personal experience?

• Read John 2: 1-11. What stood out to you most about Jesus’ first miracle being at a wedding?

• Why do you think it matters that Jesus made abundant, high-quality wine instead of just solving the problem quietly?
  
  

Go Deeper

• How would you describe the difference between happiness and the joy Jesus offers?

• Read John 15:11. What do you think “complete joy” looks like?

• Eric highlighted three ways to “raise our sails” to receive God’s joy. The first is to receive God’s joy through his path. Read Psalm 16:11. Is there an area that comes to mind where you can align more closely with God’s path?

• The second way to receive God’s joy is through his purpose. Read Hebrews 12:2. Have you ever experienced joy while serving, using your gifts, or being part of something bigger than yourself? What gifts or passions might God be inviting you to use more intentionally?

• The third way to receive God’s joy is through his presence. Read Zephaniah 3:17. What practical habit could help you notice God’s presence more often.
  
  

Share and Pray

• The message said persistent grumpiness is a warning sign. What’s one thing currently draining your joy that we can bring to God in prayer?

• Pray together: God of JOY, by the power of the Holy Spirit, fill us with your JOY, so that it will overflow out if us, each day and every way, in the week ahead. Amen.
  

VERSE TO MEDITATE ON AND MEMORIZE THIS WEEK

I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. (John 15:11 NIV)

PUT IT INTO PRACTICE (BETWEEN MEETINGS)

• Day 1 – God Is a Joy-Bringer: Read John 2:1-11. Jesus’ first miracle wasn’t in a temple; it was at a wedding. He didn’t just solve a problem; He amplified the celebration. This shows us something powerful: God is not against joy; He created it. Do you see God as someone who increases joy in your life? Pray: God, reshape how I see You. Help me trust that You are for my joy.

• Day 2 – The Difference Between Joy and Happiness: Read John 15:11. Happiness depends on circumstances. Joy runs deeper—it’s rooted in Jesus. His joy remains even when life is hard. Where have you been chasing temporary happiness instead of lasting joy? Pray: Jesus, replace my shallow substitutes with Your deeper joy.

• Day 3 – Joy Through His Path: Read Psalm 16:11. God’s design leads to flourishing, even when obedience feels slow or difficult. Aligning with His wisdom positions us to experience real joy over time. Is there an area where you need to step more fully onto God’s path? Pray: Lord, give me courage to follow Your ways, trusting that joy follows obedience.

• Day 4 – Joy Through His Purpose: Read Hebrews 12:2. Jesus endured suffering because He saw the joy beyond it. When we live for something bigger than ourselves, joy grows, even in difficulty. How might joining God’s bigger purpose increase joy in your life? Pray: God, help me live beyond myself and find joy in what You are doing.

• Day 5 – Joy Through His Presence: Read Zephaniah 3:17. Joy begins with knowing God is near—and that He delights in you. In His presence is fullness of joy, available in every room you walk into. What would change if you walked into today remembering God is already there? Pray: Father, make me aware of Your presence and fill me with Your joy today.