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 Judges 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…
The book of Judges has such an ironic name. I know it is the story of many of Israel’s early leaders who were known as “judges”. However, the irony is that we can easily find ourselves judging the people we read about in it. Samson’s parents in todays reading are no exception. His mom is told by an angel of the Lord that she will miraculously give birth to a son who will become a mighty leader of his people. She tells this to her husband and what does he do? He doubts it could be true, calls out to God for proof, and is still skeptical even when the message is sent again. I’m like: “You dummy! Why are you doubting?” If I’m honest though, there are plenty of times when I have felt God stirring something in me and pretty clearly pointing me in a direction and I have gone another, or delayed. What is God calling you to do today? Forgive someone who hurt you? Join a lifegroup? Give something up? Take something on? Whatever it is, do it! Don’t be stubborn and stiff-necked. Step into this challenge God is giving you with confidence, knowing that if he is calling you into it, he will be in it with you. - 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, simply pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer.
Further Focus: Pray through the Lord’s Prayer using this Lord’s Prayer 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!