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 Acts 15:36–41; 16:1–5; 1 Corinthians 9:19–21
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…
Today’s portion of the Scriptures begins with Paul’s Second Missionary journey to follow up on the new believers that received the gospel preached to them, repented and renounced their pagan practices and converted in faith to the risen Lord Jesus Christ. This is the same Barnabas (which means “Son of Encouragement”) who stood up for Saul after his conversion, because the believers in Jerusalem were fearful of Saul who at former times was persecuting the Church. Barnabas boldly spoke to the Leadership council in Jerusalem that Saul (now Paul) has truly converted to Christ and has preached mightily from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ (Messiah). So, Barnabas suggested bringing along John, also called Mark; but Paul thought it best not to take him, because he deserted them during their First Missionary journey. Their disagreement was so sharp that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus, but Paul chose Silas and departed, strengthening the churches  ( Acts 15: 36-41). This  disagreement between Paul and Barnabas reveals that even faithful devoted believers can experience personal disputes.   After the separation of Paul and Barnabas we still see the hand of God at work even now. In Acts 16; 1-5, In Lystra, Paul meets a young disciple named Timothy. According to Bible scholars, this Timothy is the first second-generation Christian mentioned in the New Testament. His mother, Eunice and grandmother Lois (2 Timothy 1:5). Paul, recognizing Timothy’s potential and godly heritage circumcised him to better evangelize both Jews and Gentiles. Then Timothy accompanied Paul and Silas in delivering the decisions from the Jerusalem Council regarding the conduct of Gentile believers to the churches, strengthening their faith. The purpose and will of God is so much bigger than human personality conflicts, interpersonal issues, and disagreements. The Lord’s plan for redemption will prevail. There is nothing too hard for the Lord our God.   Hey, remember John (Mark), the one seemingly failed when he abandoned Paul and Barnabas and left them and returned home. But Barnabas (“Son of Encouragement”) did not give up on him and continued on in the ministry of the Lord together. Barnabas, over a period of time and process with the help and power of the Holy Spirit, mentored and developed Mark in such an effective manner that got the attention of Paul. Later in Paul’s life penned the second letter to his “son in the gospel,” Timothy. “ In 2 Timothy 4: 9-11, Paul requests that Mark come - Mark at one time was “useless” to Paul, but through the redeeming power of the Spirit of God working through Barnabas; this same Mark has become “useful” to Paul in the ministry. What a mighty God who alone can do the impossible. Put your trust in God today and watch Him do wonders on your behalf! - 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!