Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
Pick a song from one of our Spotify Playlists and let it play in the background.
ENTER. Write down or say out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for from the last 24 hours.
FOCUS. Slowly breathe in… and out. Pray, Jesus, I surrender to you today and trust in you.
READ. Our Scripture Focus is 2 Chronicles 7:13-14. Try memorizing it during this study!
Today’s reading is from 1 Chronicles 28-29 & Psalm 132:11-12
THINK. A Thought from Holly MacDonald…
David received from the Spirit of God plans for the temple. Every single fine detail, from the weight of the gold lamp stands and tables to the forks and pitchers, David passed on instructions to his son Solomon. After giving Solomon every detail, David says some encouraging yet challenging words. “Be strong and courageous, and do the work.” (1 Chronicles 28:20). The one God appointed to execute the plan and build the temple, Solomon, was not actually the one with the original vision! Remember a few chapters back in 1 Chronicles 17 when it was on David’s heart to build a house for the Lord to dwell in? Nathan said “Go for it!” and God said, “You are not the one to build me a house.” (1 Chronicles 17:4). David could have just went alone and built a temple for God. Instead God had a different plan, one that would involve community, discipleship, and the next generation. David gracefully accepts God’s no and instead equips His son to fulfill God’s plans and purposes. What a beautiful picture of equipping the next generation! This was not David getting out of hard work, in fact, he made many preparations for Solomon because he was young and inexperienced (1 Chronicles 22). Now, what does all of this mean for us? Every single day, whether you’re a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, cousin, older sibling, boss, manager, church attender, etc., we have the opportunity to equip those coming behind us for the good works God has prepared in advance! This is called discipleship. Who is next? Who is coming up behind you that you can help supply them with the proper tools to fulfill God’s plans? Pray today and ask the Lord who you might be able to share with what the Lord is teaching you. Don’t worry, in the same way David encouraged Solomon, the Lord will be with you as you lead and equip the next generation! He will not leave you to do it in your own strength.
PRAY. Join Paradox in Prayer & Fasting this Lent. Learn more at paradoxchurch.com/lent.
Use the Daily Prayer Guide after each day’s reading. Ask the following SOS Questions & journal your thoughts.
S = Say. What does it say? What is the main point? What does it teach you about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can I obey? What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. What truth can I share? Who can you share what you’re learning with today?
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!