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 Psalm 119:9-16 & Galatians 5:16-25 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 believe God cares so deeply for our character, and is truly after our heart. He demonstrated through His son Jesus the way we should live, and continues to refine us with His Holy Spirit. In Psalm 119: 9-16, I find direction. Use God’s Word, and keep His commandments. This is how to guard our hearts, and continue walking in His righteous ways. God’s Word shows us how to weigh and measure everything our minds take in, and how our hearts process these things. (v15). I used to think the excuse “I just don’t want to” was as good as any, and gave me permission to not be obedient. I actually lived with that attitude. Who’s going to make me?! I felt empowered by it. It wasn’t until I was put in a position of leadership that I began to battle against this nature in my flesh, like when I became a wife and mother. “I don’t feel like it” doesn’t really work well when I’m talking to my child, and “you can’t make me” sounds pretty immature when I’m working something out with my husband. I think this rings true in all forms of leadership. We aren’t called to be perfect. God’s Words bleed love, grace and forgiveness throughout. God disciplines those He loves with these things, and He never stops loving His children. He wants us to stay close to Him so we always know where we are, and have our Heavenly Father to go to in any situation. We can lead effectively because we are following our good shepherd. Ask God how you can walk closer to Him today. Start by going to His Word, and thank Him for the instruction He gives. Praise Him for giving you the tools to measure all things with, and In particular our own hearts. Be thankful for His Holy Spirit that walks with us as we learn to use what we have been given for His good works. My prayer is that you see the fruit of the Holy Spirit in your life today, and that it would bring you joy like it brings your Heavenly Father. - 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!
