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 28:11–31; Isaiah 6:9–10; 2 Timothy 4:6–8
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…
With summer vacation coming to an end, it brings mixed feelings. I find myself stressing just thinking about co-workers, kids, and the daily chaos that ensues… I work at an elementary school. I have been praying about this school year like I do every year, and God never fails to show up. On one hand I would love to stay in the comfort of my own home, planning activities and staying caught up on laundry. On the other, I know there’s so much more He has in store when I step into a new season fully trusting in Him, and eagerly waiting for the next opportunity I get to show His love, grace, kindness, and CONFIDENCE. (Sorry, I had to yell that last one to make sure I could hear myself.) Paul demonstrates so much confidence in Acts 28. He was hitting some pretty sweet spots where he experienced brotherhood, joy-filled ministry, and comfort. Then a south wind blew and brought him back to Rome, a place where he was once in chains. He felt lead to stay for 2 whole years after this and, despite the mixed feelings and arguing he witnessed as a result of the truth he was trying to preach to the Jewish leaders there, he continued on full of the Holy Spirit and humility - ready to proclaim the kingdom of God to anyone that would come to him (v30-31). Today, let’s boldly and confidently step into the season God has for us. I’m praying for confidence like Paul, and for willing hearts to be committed to the mission God is preparing us for. - Rachel Hood

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!