1. Whether we know it or not, we are all searching for joy.

a. How would you describe joy?

b. How is that different than happiness?

2. Jesus is the only source of real joy and if we pursue Him, we will find Him and just as the magi, be filled with

exceedingly great joy. If we take the next step toward God, He will show himself to you.

a. How would you describe pursing God and the joy he provides?

b. What next step toward him is he calling you to take?

3. There will always be something or someone trying to stop or inhibit your pursuit of God.

a. How can we move beyond all the obstacles, all the distractions and take that next step toward God?

4. Sometimes the answer to your prayer will only be see when we persevere.

a. What is God calling you to push through?

5. God used the magi to provide for Josiah, Mary and Jesus to flee to Egypt. Provision that came from an unexpected

source.

a. What need can you surrender to God today so he can provide in a way only He can?

Matthew 2:1-2, 9-12 NASB Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold,

magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His

star in the east and have come to worship Him.”

After hearing the king, they went on their way; and behold, the star, which they had seen in the east, went on ahead of

them until it came to a stop over the place where the Child was to be found. When they saw the star, they rejoiced

exceedingly with great joy. And after they came into the house, they saw the Child with His mother Mary; and they fell

down and worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented to Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and

myrrh. And after being warned by God in a dream not to return to Herod, the magi left for their own country by

another way.

Luke 18:35-43 NASB Now as Jesus was approaching Jericho, a man who was blind was sitting by the road, begging.

But when he heard a crowd going by, he began inquiring what this was. They told him that Jesus of Nazareth was

passing by. And he called out, saying, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Those who led the way were sternly

telling him to be quiet; but he kept crying out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” And Jesus stopped and

commanded that he be brought to Him; and when he came near, He asked him, “What do you want Me to do for you?”

And he said, “Lord, I want to regain my sight!” And Jesus said to him, “Regain your sight; your faith has made you

well.” And immediately he regained his sight and began following Him, glorifying God; and when all the people saw it,

they gave praise to God.

Matthew 6:33 NASB But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided to you.

Jeremiah 29:13 NASB And you will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.