Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on scripture, or writing/saying 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Practice hearing from God by asking questions like, “Father, what do you want me to know about you?” or “Father, what do you want to say about your love for me?” Simply be still and listen, or journal anything that comes to mind. Learn more about hearing from God using the Tending Your Heart guide.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Today’s reading is from 1 Corinthians 16:1-11
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
I Corinthians 16 encourages us to serve and give generously, plan wisely, and embrace community with like-minded believers in Christ. As we travel along our Christian journey, may we remain consistent in faith, perform every action with love, and esteem those who work hard in the service of our Lord. In verses 1-4, Paul advises the Corinthians on how to get ready their collection of financial gifts for the believers in Jerusalem who were suffering from persecution, poverty and famine. Paul suggests a plan that each one should set aside monetary support in accordance with each individual’s income every week until his arrival; instead of trying to collect everything at one time. Paul details his travel itinerary to personally visit Corinth after going through Macedonia. He is looking forward to a fruitful mission in Ephesus for a wide-open door to present the gospel, despite many adversaries and oppositions (vv5-9). Paul instructs the Corinthians concerning his “son in the gospel” in vv 10-11, “When Timothy comes, don’t intimidate him. He is doing the Lord's work, just as I am. Don’t let anyone treat him with contempt. Send him on his way with your blessing when he returns to me.  I expect him to come with the other believers” (NLT). Questions to ponder, What principles of Christian giving can you glean from Paul’s instructions about the collection for Jerusalem? How does this chapter challenge your understanding and practice of Christian fellowship? How can you support and encourage those in your community who are serving the Lord? Remember everything that you do for Christ will last. Our work and service in our Lord is never in vain. - Lawrence Payton

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying a Daily Examen each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy or joyful? What made you anxious or burdened?
Rejoice = Give thanks to God for the small and the significant things from the day.
Repent = Ask God for forgiveness where you need. Receive His forgiveness afresh.
Refocus = Commit to walk with Jesus tomorrow. Ask for grace to see His presence more clearly.
*For help or an audio prayer version, use the Lectio 365 app.

SHARE THE FOCUS |
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!