Friday, January 27

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 Matthew 25
THINK. A Thought from Pastor Dave…
I’m not going to lie, at first reading there’s a lot in here that seems unfair, or even harsh. Locking people out because they made a mistake? Taking everything away from someone who simply didn’t lose it? Being judged for what you didn’t do? Those are the feelings that often come up when we think about the end of life, or the end of time. It can seem unfair. Even harsh. When I feel this way, it’s important to go back and ask Jesus again to help us see, hear, and understand what he’s telling us in love. Remember, Jesus told these parables as invitations and warnings, so that the consequences would be avoided! In essence, these three parables tell us to be prepared for Jesus’ return. How can we prepare? By knowing and doing. In the first parable, those who knew the groom were invited in because they were wise enough to have oil for their lamp in the first place - while the others “never knew him.” Knowing Jesus will give you everything you need to live wisely. In the second parable, the third servant did know the master, but he didn’t live like him. When we know that our life and everything in it is actually not our own, but it’s entrusted to us by our master, then wisdom is doing with it what he would want us to do. What is that, exactly? Not only is it knowing the groom and investing what is the master’s, but it’s doing so on behalf of others - which in turn is how we love God. Many Christians assume that “knowing Jesus” and “hiding out” until he returns is preparedness… Jesus teaches us that we prepare for His return by knowing and doing. Know God. Live wisely by following his ways. Invest what has been entrusted to you in his kingdom, and do it by loving and serving others in Jesus’ name. Jesus will return. And on that day, there will be no “I didn’t know” - only what you did with what you knew. Now you know, but as they say - that’s only half the battle. (PS: The answer from today’s text message is GI Joe)
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!

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