Good Morning!
If you’re new here, welcome! Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
Each day of this study, look for the #21DaysofThankfulness challenge in the Focus.
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use this Thanksgiving Playlist.

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 Psalm 31:7-24, Isaiah 35:9-10, Romans 15:13, James 1:2-4 & 1Peter 4:12-19
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?
One of the best ways to learn more about the Bible is by discussing it with others.
Work through this week’s Discussion Guide and meet up with a Paradox Lifegroup.

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Due in part to financial necessity and part testosterone infused pride, I am a DIY guy as much as possible with our family cars. Drop a new trans or change a head gasket…that’s beyond me, my hand tools, and my driveway. Change brakes or a window motor…maybe a steering pump…I can probably do it with my trusty assistant: YouTube. There have been many a Saturday afternoon full of hardship and frustration for me. Bolts that won’t loosen or snap off completely, parts that don’t fit, etc. I am thankful no one was recording me as there has been some unsavory language and many tools thrown. BUT…I am honestly glad that I had those times of trouble. Through them I learned new techniques and tricks. More importantly, I have felt God’s presence and seen his provision in action as I’ve invited him into my trials. We read in Romans today that God is the “God of Hope”. You will notice in those verses that Paul doesn’t say that God will remove our problems; but he will fill us with peace and joy as He is invited into the trials with us. The trials in our lives, be it a locked rotor or a something more serious like physical/relational distress, are opportunities to feel God’s presence and grow in the process. James calls this ENDURANCE, and he admonishes us to: “let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.” Would I prefer God supernaturally fix our cars for me? Well, maybe once. But generally, honestly…no. I want to suffer in this life, as I know Christ suffered for me, that I may mature as a person and grow closer to God. - Mike Nank

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
1. Try memorizing and meditating on 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 during this study.
2. Read Psalm 31:7. Pray about something difficult or painful in your life. How can you thank God in it or for it? #21DaysofThankfulness

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
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.
Every new person that signs up for the Focus until December 1st gets entered to win a steak dinner!

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!