Tuesday, October 3

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.
Further Focus: Declare what God’s Word says is true about who you are in Christ back to Him.

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 4:1-16
*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…
Such a powerful passage from God’s Word to reflect on today. I couldn’t possibly break it all down here, so I will share one thought and invite you all to share your thoughts in the Forum.
In verse 7, Paul reminds us that GRACE was
given to each one of us. If we pause and pray on that word for a moment, it is really quite humbling. God has given us life, a universe to explore, people to explore it with, and unique personalities and gifts. When we scorn these gifts, as we all do to varying degrees and frequencies, he doesn’t punish or disown or destroy us. Instead our gracious, perfect parent forgives. (The origin of the word for-give is simply intentional/directed giving.) So God gives, and then gives even more. And then…he gives us even more (v.11-12) so that we won’t easily return to the state of mind where we scorn his gifts and require even MORE for-giving from Him. When we say at Paradox that our God is a giver and not a taker, we are acknowledging a fundamental truth about who God is. He is thee GIVER. Thank you, Jesus!!! - Mike Nank

PRAYER FOCUS |
5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Pray through Psalm 23, pausing after each line to thank God for everything He’s given.
Further Focus: Follow along with our International Prayer & Fast from Monday-Wednesday. Find more information on our Facebook & Instagram pages.

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!

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