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 in the last 24 hours.
WORSHIP. Pick a song from one of our Spotify Playlists and let it play in the background.
READ. Our Scripture Focus is 1 Timothy 1:15. Today’s reading is from 1 Timothy 1:1-11 (Go Deeper: Deuteronomy 6:1-8 & Romans 10:1-13)
THINK. A Thought from Pastor Dave…
”Instruction” isn’t really “instruction” without a goal. What does it really mean to “teach?” We can be tempted to allow church, a message, a group Bible study, or even daily readings to simply become about hearing new or interesting information. However, when Paul writes to Timothy, whom he calls his “son in the faith”, his goal is to take faith out of a lecture hall and into the realm of parenting. Parenting, of course, is about more than transmitting information. Paul says in this letter that teaching is not empty speculation or fruitless discussion. Like a good parent, Paul says there should be a goal to instruction: love. Love is real, tangible, active. And this isn’t just any love, but it’s love that has to do with our motives (comes from a pure heart), our morals (a good conscience), and our model (sincere faith.) This week, whether you’re reading your Bible, listening to a message or podcast, or participating in a group study - keep the goal in mind! Is the love of Jesus your model for your thoughts, attitudes, words, and actions? Does His love impact how you think about right and wrong, and do your actions align with that? Will you allow God’s instruction to reach the heart level of your motivations? Don’t settle for information. Let God your Father’s love bring transformation. As you read, ask questions like, “What does today’s reading teach me about God?” “What did I learn that I need to apply in my own life?” and “What questions or observations do I want to explore further?”
LIVE. One practical way to understand and apply the Bible is the SOS method. Ask…
S: What does this passage say about God, and what does it say about me?
O: What am I being invited to obey?
S: What can I share with those around me?
PRAY. Pray for yourself, a family member, a lifegroup/church friend, someone who doesn’t know Jesus, and the nations. Pick one each day or pray through them all every day.
CONNECT. Have a question, prayer request, or story? Let us know here or reply via text.
SHARE. Invite a friend to read the Focus with you! Just text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
Run the race with endurance today, and stay focused on Jesus.
Make it a Great One!