The Helper
“Unquenchable Joy”
Romans 14:13-19

Is it possible to have joy when life isn’t going my way?

It Depends
Whether you have “filtered joy” or “unquenchable joy.”

Filtered Joy			Unquenchable Joy
Looks real			Lasting 
Emotional			Anchored by God
Easily stolen			Strengthens with suffering 

Real joy can’t be quenched –it’s fueled by the Spirit, found in God’s presence, and fixed on His promises.	

Romans 14:13-19

The Helper gives …
1. Joy that circumstances can’t steal

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” – Jesus, John 10:10

Abundant Life = A life of unquenchable joy

 “And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.” – Acts 13:52

“When you live with the Spirit, joy stops being something you chase and starts being something you carry.” – John Mark Comer, Practicing the Way

The Helper gives …
2. Joy that transforms our suffering  

Your pain may be the place where joy takes root. 

“… as sorrowful, yet rejoicing …” – 2 Corinthians 6:10

“About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.” – Acts 16:25

“For you joyfully accepted the plundering of your property, since you knew that you yourselves had a better possession and an abiding one.” – Hebrews 10:34

Pain doesn’t push God away—it often reveals He’s been there all along.
 
The Helper gives …
3. Joy that fills us with strength that lasts 

“… for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” – Nehemiah 8:10

Joy from the Holy Spirit is proof – to you and to the world – that you belong to God. 

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” – Romans 15:13

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace …”– Galatians 5:22-23

 “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.” – Philippians 4:4

“… who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” – Hebrews 12:2

Unquenchable joy is fueled by the Spirit, found in God’s presence, and fixed on His promises.	

If Joy has faded, what do I do?
Invite the Holy Spirit into your pain
Remind yourself that God’s presence is with you
Claim a promise of God 

I choose joy!