You Were Made for Joyful Attachment – Philippians 4:4-6 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Acts 16:25 NIV Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:4-6 NIV Choose Joy Philippians 4:4 May you always be joyful in your union with the Lord. Philippians 4:4a GNB Joy does not simply happen to us. We have to choose joy and keep choosing it every day. Henri Nouwen Give Thanks Philippians 4:6 Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV Gratitude is the on-ramp for raising joy in our lives. What is a memory you are grateful for? What is happening in your body as you recall this memory What is God saying through this memory for which you are grateful? Draw Near to God Philippians 4:5 The grasslands of the wilderness become a lush pasture, and the hillsides blossom with joy. The meadows are clothed with flocks of sheep, and the valleys are carpeted with grain. They all shout and sing for joy! Psalm 65:12-13 NLT You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. Psalm 16:11 NIV Questions for Small Group/Personal Study We encourage you to do the Practicing The Way course at www.practicingtheway.org with others. This week is Session 2: Formation. Opener: Of the 6 unpleasant emotions in our brains, which is most prevalent for you: anger, fear, shame, disgust, hopelessness or sadness? Go to the Source: Read Philippians 4:4-6 Do you think that continual rejoicing is possible in your life? Why or why not? What would a life marked by these verses look like? Does your daily prayer rhythm include the rhythm of gratitude? Live it Out: Do the gratitude practice mentioned: What is a memory you are grateful for? Linger in it. Picture it. Pay attention to what is happening in your body as you recall this memory. What is God saying through this memory?