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 6:1-4 *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…
These first 4 verses of Ephesians 6 are a great set to apply the SOS method to (see above). As I was doing this, when I asked myself what does this passage teach about us, I was struck by the question, why do children need to be told this at all? Of course kids will listen to their wise parents, right? No! The reality is that we humans are inclined NOT TO obey our parents. Why? I think it’s pride. We think we have a better way. We see all the imperfections in our parents and think, “I am sure I can do better for myself than they did, which must include following a different path than they did.” However, God says that when we honor/obey our parents it will go well with us. God’s power to fight our innate pride is available to us if we ask. For those of us whose earthly parents are gone, we can still apply this wise tact and allow ourselves to be guided by spiritual parents.
Lord, please help us to overcome our pride and learn from our parents and others you have put in authority over us. Amen.
- Mike Nank

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
If you’re just starting out, 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.
Further Focus: Learn more about hearing from God using the Tending Your Heart guide.

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!