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 2 Timothy 4:5-22 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 TODAYS READING…

I love how 2 Timothy 4:8 states, “Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for His appearing.” Everyone appreciates the idea of rewards. Whether it’s graduating college and receiving a degree, finishing a race and getting a medal, or enjoying dessert after dinner, we often celebrate the completion of our efforts. Yet, it takes a great deal of perseverance to see these things through to the end. Years ago, I decided to train for a half marathon with my husband. There were many challenging moments during the training, like waking up early to run before starting my day. Countless times, I was tempted to relax on the couch instead of completing my run. However, when race day arrived and I crossed the finish line, the sense of accomplishment was one of the best feelings I’ve ever experienced. I proudly wore the medal for days! This race, however exciting as it was to accomplish, is nothing compared to the joy that will come from a life lived in obedience to God. God has called us to a challenging task: to share the gospel with those around us. In verse 5, Paul reminds us to “keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist.” This message indicates that the work He asks us to do won’t always be easy. There may be times when you feel isolated in your mission, or when relationships strain because of differing beliefs. You might wonder if it’s worth it to keep going. I assure you, if you persevere, the reward waiting for you in heaven will far exceed any fleeting satisfaction you find here on earth. “Endure the hardship, do the work of an evangelist,” and patiently anticipate the reward God promises—it will absolutely be worth it! - Liz Holland

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!