Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
THANK. Write down 3-5 things you’re thankful for in the last 24 hours.
WORSHIP. Pick a song from one of our Spotify Playlists and let it play in the background.
READ. Our Scripture Focus is Ephesians 4:4-6. Try memorizing it during this study!
Today’s reading is from John 17:20-26 & Ephesians 4:1-6 (Go Deeper: Galatians 3:28, 1 Corinthians 1:10-13, 1 Corinthians 12:13, Philippians 2:1-4, Romans 15:5-6 & Revelation 7:9-17)
THINK. A Thought from Pastor Dave…
I love the phrase - “In essentials, unity. In non-essentials, liberty. In all things, charity.” Followers of Jesus are called to pursue unity as we remain connected to God - the source, sustainer, and perfect example of unity in the Trinity. The scriptures we read today call the Church to be one, united with one another as we are reconciled to God through Christ. This can be true even as Christians are a part of a wide variety of local churches and traditions and have different cultures, experiences, and preferences or passions. We can find unity in the absolutes of shared Christian identity and mission despite differences in secondary issues. Reflect on where your different beliefs fall based on these categories… Essentials are beliefs that define what it means to be a Christian at any time and in any place. Non-essentials are matters of importance that Scripture speaks to but Christians disagree on how to interpret or apply. (Differences in these secondary beliefs are what distinguish most denominations or traditions.) Opinions are areas of preference or thought beyond Scripture. Though these are relevant to the Christian life, Christians even within a local church may disagree.
LIVE. One practical way to understand and apply the Bible is the SOS method. Ask…
S: What does this passage say about God, and what does it say about me?
O: What am I being invited to obey?
S: What can I share with those around me?
PRAY. Pray for yourself, a family member, a lifegroup/church friend, someone who doesn’t know Jesus, and the nations. Pick one each day or pray through them all every day.
CONNECT. Have a question, prayer request, or story? Let us know here or reply via text.
SHARE. Invite a friend to read the Focus with you! Just text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
Run the race with endurance today, and stay focused on Jesus.
Make it a Great One!