Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
THANK. Write down 3-5 things you’re thankful for from the last 24 hours.
Pick a song from one of our Spotify Playlists and let it play in the background.
PRAY. What is stressful or challenging as you look ahead at this day? Write it down and talk w/ God about it.
READ. Our Scripture Focus is Matthew 9:35-36. Try memorizing it during this study!
Today’s reading is from Mark 8:1-38, Matthew 16:13-20 & Mark 9:1
THINK. A Thought from Pastor Mike…
In verse 29 of Mark 8 Jesus asks his disciples a very important question. Those of us trying to follow Jesus also need to answer this critical question: “Who do you say I am?” Peter rightly answered: “The Messiah, the son of the living God.” And notice that Jesus didn’t ask “who do you THINK I am?”, but “SAY that I am”. Peter declared Jesus to be the Messiah, which means promised deliverer, in that moment, but he would also go on to boldly declare it for the rest of his life. Who do you say Jesus is? If you are resolved that he is your lord and savior, then you are called by Jesus himself to pick up your cross and follow him. This means that your walk through the rest of this life will not be easy. For the sake of the gospel (good news), you will be called to sacrifice. It may not cost you your life, but it will cost something; your time, comfort, worldly status, maybe even friends. But, in Jesus’ words: “For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it. What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?”
ASK. Throughout this study, we’ll be practicing Discovery Bible Study (DBS) together. After each day’s reading, ask the following questions and write down your thoughts.
What is the main point of this passage?
What does it teach you about God (Jesus)?
What does it show you about people, or yourself?
What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
Who can you share this with today?
How did you do practicing and sharing what you learned yesterday?
PRAY (AGAIN). Pray for a family member, a lifegroup/church friend, someone who came to mind, someone who doesn’t know Jesus, and the nations. Pick one each day or pray through them all every day.
TALK. That was our take on today’s reading - what’s yours? Share thoughts and ask questions in the forum.
SHARE. Stay focused with a friend! Invite them to text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
Stay focused on Jesus today, and make it a great one!
