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 Ephesians 4:1-6. Try memorizing it during this study!
Today’s reading is from John 21:15-17 (Go Deeper: Matthew 20:20-28, Ephesians 4:11-14, 1 Peter 5:1-5, Acts 6:1-6, Acts 20:28-31, 1 Timothy 3:1-13, Titus 1:5-9, Hebrews 13:7,17 & 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13)
THINK. A Thought from Pastor Dave…
Sometimes I talk with people who wonder what exactly it is that a pastor does at a church. We only work one day a week, right!?! Other times people express a desire to work at the church. But what exactly are the job description and qualifications for those who feel called to lead others within God’s Church? Today’s reading gives a detailed one, and some of it is surprising! For example, you may have heard people talk about wanting to be “fed” at church. Jesus calls ALL his followers (those who love him) to feed (disciple) others. Similarly, Jesus calls ALL his followers to serve others. Many believe that it is the job of a leader to do all the “church work.” But Paul instructs leaders to equip the Church to do the work of ministry! So what do the leaders do? There are two types of leadership within the Church: Elders, who “shepherd” (or care for) the church (at Paradox, we call these Elders and LifeGroup Leaders) and Deacons, who serve the church in specific roles (at Paradox, we call these Directors). Shepherds (Pastors, Elders, and LifeGroup Leaders) watch over and protect their church (Paradox or their LifeGroup) - especially from false teaching and foolish living by giving wise (biblical) counsel. For these reasons, Elders, Directors & LifeGroup Leaders are called to live a faithful life - not perfect, but committed to following Jesus in every area of their life consistently - and will give an account for those they lead. The “flock,” on the other hand, is called to imitate their leader’s life and faith, regard them highly, and be at peace with others. (In other words, don’t make their life more difficult than it is!)
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!