Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Focus, take as long as you’d like or are able in each segment.
Further Focus is an optional, additional practice to help you go further with Jesus.

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 by journaling or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for in the last 24 hours.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or choose from one of our Spotify Playlists.
Further Focus: Declare what God’s Word says is true about who you are in Christ back to Him.

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 Ephesians 3:1-13
*Focusing as a Family? Find Paradox on the Parent Cue App
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?
Further Focus: One of the best ways to learn more about the Bible is by discussing it with others.
Work through this week’s Lifegroup Discussion Guide and meet up with a Paradox Lifegroup.

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
I love how “matter of fact” the apostle Paul speaks. He also seasons his message with a note of humility that I think gives the reader confidence when trying to put these things in perspective. In chapter 3, what sticks out to me is just how loving and kind it was that Paul sent a letter of encouragement to the the church of Ephesus while HE was in prison (!) Paul is telling this faithful church to have confidence and boldness when they are pursuing Gods purpose, and the advancement of His Kingdom. Our Father grants us all access to His power and authority through faithfulness in Jesus. Paul continues to reiterate over and over that all things were created by God, and for his purposes. It can be difficult to keep that perspective when there are times I see enemies or threats in my own life. Verse 6 says, “This mystery is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.” Paul writes that this was a mystery. Something people didn’t know what to make of or how to navigate. How do you spread good news to people that hate you? Or, how do you start loving someone you have hate for? I love Jesus, and that means I’m learning to love what he loves, and who he loves. When you love someone, you care about what matters to them. Take a minute to consider a persons heart, and begin to care about them the way they are loved by Jesus. - Rachel Hood

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Pray Psalm 16 using the P.R.A.Y. acronym.
Pause to be still, Reflect on the verses, Ask God for help, and say Yes to Jesus.
Further Focus: Reading and praying scripture to hear God in this way is called Lectio Divina.
Learn more about Lectio Divina here and practice using one of these apps.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
Further Focus: 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!