Thursday, January 4

Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
(John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from Isaiah 35:1-10, Isaiah 65:1-12 & Isaiah 65:17-25
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
In today's scripture reference the prophet Isaiah describes a vision in which after the judgment of God, the redeemed of the Lord will experience God’s mercy. God will eradicate wickedness and all those who put their trust and hope in Him will experience fullness of joy.  So what does this look like?  Scriptures say the eyes of the blind will be opened and deaf ears will be unplugged.  There will be no lack, instead everything will be plentiful. We will enter into the paths of righteousness and His joy will overtake us and sorrow will flee.  The wolf and the lamb will eat together, they will nor bring harm or destruction.  There will be a highway called a Way of Holiness, in which the unclean will not journey on it. A new heaven and new earth…. God’s kingdom where everything will be made right. As believers it is important  we continue to share the gospel with zeal, as it is available to everyone.  Jesus will reign after the judgment and eternal life will be given to those who believe in Him. While God’s judgment is fearful to perceive, we can place our hope in his loving mercy which is available to those who believe.  (Isaiah 65:18 - NIV) But be glad and rejoice forever in what I will create, for I will create Jerusalem to be a delight and its people a joy. - Colleen Payton

PRAYER FOCUS |
5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Pick a Psalm to pray using P.R.A.Y. Pause to be still, Reflect on the verses, Ask God for help, & say Yes to Jesus.
Reading scripture in this way is called Lectio Divina. Learn more here and practice using one of these apps.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!

Close