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.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on scripture, or writing/saying 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Practice hearing from God by asking questions like, “Father, what do you want me to know about you?” or “Father, what do you want to say about your love for me?” Simply be still and listen, or journal anything that comes to mind. Learn more about hearing from God using the Tending Your Heart guide.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Today’s reading is from 1 Corinthians 9:1-18
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
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…
Our God doesn’t miss a detail. Throughout His Word, He has provided guidelines and a means for everything, including man, beast, farmer, priest, apostle, and many more. Our God’s attention to detail and provision never ceases to amaze me. He didn’t simply create the entire universe and proclaim, “Fly, be free! Do your best!” Our God, our King, knew we would need instructions and order, and He provided them. How does this affect your perspective of HIm? (And the apostles did have wives!! Haven’t at least some of you wondered about that?! Sorry, I had to say it, back on target now... 🙂)
Paul lays out his point first with the word of God, which points to God's character, drawing all to God, not himself. Then, he explains himself and why he and Barnabas don’t take the provisions permitted and laid out in God’s law. Paul wants nothing to get in the way of the gospel. They come as laborers, making their own way, so the message is heard and left with the people. No argument can be made about their motivation and expectations of the churches. Again, this is their choice; others aren’t wrong for following God’s provision. It just blows my mind how Paul chooses to live and serve and the sacrifices he and others made. Is there a sacrifice God is asking you to make, a provision to be laid aside for the sake of the gospel? - Renee Richter

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying a Daily Examen each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy or joyful? What made you anxious or burdened?
Rejoice = Give thanks to God for the small and the significant things from the day.
Repent = Ask God for forgiveness where you need. Receive His forgiveness afresh.
Refocus = Commit to walk with Jesus tomorrow. Ask for grace to see His presence more clearly.
*For help or an audio prayer version, use the Lectio 365 app.

SHARE THE FOCUS |
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!