Joy Worth Pursuing

Joy is not something we stumble into by accident. In this message, Pastor Chris Teien walks through the story of the Magi in Matthew 2 and shows how true joy is found by those who intentionally pursue Jesus, even when the path is uncertain. This episode invites listeners to step out in faith, follow the light God gives, and offer Christ their very best.

Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/18395519

Key Points:

1. Take the first step toward Jesus
    The Magi acted on what they knew, not on what they could fully see. Faith moves forward with limited information, trusting God to guide each next step. Scripture: Matthew 2:1–2, Psalm 119:105
2. Do not let fear or comfort keep you from Him
    Fear, insecurity, and comfort can quietly keep us from obedience. While Herod resisted Jesus and religious leaders stayed comfortable, the Magi kept moving. Joy grows when faith turns knowledge into action. Scripture: Matthew 2:3–6, James 4:8, Isaiah 55:6
3. Follow the light God gives you
    God often reveals direction gradually. As we respond faithfully, He provides clarity along the way. Remaining close to Christ keeps us fruitful and steady even in uncertainty. Scripture: Matthew 2:9–10, John 15:4–5, James 1:22
4. Offer Jesus your best, not what is left over
    True worship costs something. The Magi brought their treasures, bowed in humility, and trusted God with their resources. When we place Christ first, God uses our surrender to accomplish His purposes. Scripture: Matthew 2:11–12, John 5:24, Romans 15:13

Personal Stories from Pastor Chris:
 Pastor Chris shares his own journey of stepping away from career security to pursue full-time ministry, reflecting on the joy that comes from trusting God with the unknown and moving forward in obedience.

Notable Quotes:
 Joy is rooted in God’s presence, promises, and purposes.
 Faith moves forward with the light it has.
 You experience joy when obedience turns belief into action.

Actionable Takeaways:
 Reflect on where fear or comfort may be slowing your obedience.
 Identify one step God is prompting you to take toward Him.
 Commit to following Scripture even when the future feels unclear.
 Offer your time, resources, and heart to Christ intentionally this week.

Scripture References:
 Matthew 2:1–12 – The Magi pursue and worship Jesus
 Psalm 16:11 – Joy found in God’s presence
 Nehemiah 8:10 – The joy of the Lord as strength
 Psalm 119:105 – God’s Word as guidance
 James 4:8 – Drawing near to God
 Isaiah 55:6 – Seeking the Lord
 John 15:4–5 – Abiding in Christ
 James 1:22 – Living out the Word
 John 5:24 – Crossing from death to life
 Romans 15:13 – Hope, joy, and peace through trust in God

Keywords:
 joy worth pursuing, Magi, Christmas faith, spiritual obedience, following God, Christian joy, faith journey, worship, biblical encouragement

Challenge:
 Ask God what step of faith He is calling you to take, then move forward this week trusting Him with the outcome.

The WELL Faith Sermon Audio Podcast shares practical and encouraging Bible-based messages from Pastor Chris Teien to help you grow in your walk with Christ. A new message is released every Sunday. Episodes marked with an asterisk (*) are replay episodes from previous years. Find resources at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church in Virginia, MN. Follow and review on your favorite platform. Send comments to: connect@christeien.com