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I. SALVATION HAS JOYS — the Christian s duty and privilege to possess them.

1. In so changing our relations as to put us in harmony with God.

(1)  Once rebels, now obedient subjects.

(2)  Once lost and condemned, now saved and pardoned.

(3)  Once strangers, now children.

2. In enlarging our field of usefulness. No man is prepared to live till he is born again.

II. THESE JOYS MAY BE LOST. This accords with the sad experience of God's most faithful servants.

1. One cause of the joyless life of many professed Christians is the want of salvation. How can they expect an effect without a cause?

2. Another source is the neglect of known duties.

(1)  Prayer.

(2)  Reading the Bible.

(3)  Assembling themselves together.

3. Retaining sin in the heart.

4. Being wise above what is revealed.

5. Giving more time and care to our secular interests than to the service of God and the cultivation of the heart.

III. THESE LOST JOYS MAY BE RESTORED. How indulgent, patient and kind is the backslider's God!

1. They will be restored.

(1)  Entirely.

(2)  Willingly.

(3)  Immediately.

2. The Christian's happiness and usefulness are complete when he is in the full enjoyment of salvation.

(E. A. Taylor.)

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KJV: Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.

WEB: Restore to me the joy of your salvation. Uphold me with a willing spirit.