Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Focus, take as long as you’d like or are able in each segment.
Further Focus is an optional, additional practice to help you go further with Jesus.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start by journaling or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for in the last 24 hours.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or choose from one of our Spotify Playlists.
3. Declare what God’s Word says is true about who you are in Christ back to Him.
Further Focus: Sing a song of worship, or read Psalm 16, to lift up your eyes to Jesus.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from Ephesians 1:20-23
*Focusing as a Family? Find Paradox on the Parent Cue App
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?
Further Focus: One of the best ways to learn more about the Bible is by discussing it with others.
Work through this week’s Lifegroup Discussion Guide and meet up with a Paradox Lifegroup.

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
The first thing that I was reminded of when I read these verses was something that I do when I am going through a tough situation, or struggling with disappointment or fear. It says right here that Jesus is above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name here on earth both in the present age and the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and gave him ruling over everything for the church. The church is US! What a gift! When I’m struggling I will remind myself of a few things…1. that Jesus still sits on the throne and he will continue to be seated on the throne. Which means he is still in control! (Even when things seem out of control.) 2. He is not surprised by anything that is currently happening in my life, especially the hard seasons, circumstances, or situations. He is over everyone and everything both now AND tomorrow and all the days to come. It brings me comfort and peace in the midst of storms when I remember this, Jesus went to the cross, conquered sin and death, rose from the grave, and is now seated at the right hand of God. And he did all of that for me and you! I can trust him. We can trust his power, his goodness, and his faithfulness to us. We don’t need to fear what’s happening on this side of eternity whether it be in our government, our work places, our homes, or in our state of health. He is above all things and we cling to the hope, power, and strength that is found only in him. So, I encourage you to ask the Holy Spirit if there’s anything in your life that you’re trying to be ruler over that needs to be laid at the feet of the cross and given to the Only Ruler that we need, Jesus. - Cecelia Thapa

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Pray for Yourself. “Father God, tenderize my heart to receive your love today. Is there anything holding me back from receiving your love? Help me to know this love that surpasses knowledge and receive it today.”
Pray for your Church Family. “Father God, bless _____________ today. Help him/her to know your love that surpasses knowledge. Give me wisdom to know how to love this person well. Is there any small way I can serve or love them today?”
Pray for Others who don’t Know Jesus. “Father God, bless _____________ today. Draw them to yourself to know the great love of Jesus. Give me wisdom to know how to love this person well. Is there any small way I can serve or love them today?”
Further Focus: Spend time simply listening. Ask God to show you wonderful things in His Word.
• What does this tell me about God’s love for me? • What does this tell me about God’s love for others?

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
Further Focus: 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!