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. Use as much or as little of this guide as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does.
+ Practice gratitude while playing or sing some worship music, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on today’s Old Testament scripture: 1 Kings 2:39–3:28

+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.” Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer through this morning’s Psalm:  Psalm 119:169-176.

P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Pray a simple prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 12:20-36
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? (see Focus on Others)

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
We are deep into fall, which then turns into winter. Winter, I feel, is a season loved by some, maybe dreaded by others - all for different reasons. One obvious thing in parts of the country where winters are actually cold is that things die. It is the natural order of plants, trees, leaves to die and go through a season of death. Seeds go through this process as well when buried in the ground. They die so to speak - but then will sprout up with new life after a period of time.

In this passage, Jesus is talking with His disciples - preparing them for what is to come. He knows His death is coming but also knows it’s not final and that, out of His death, life will come. Not just His own resurrected life. but life for all of us who would put our trust and faith in Him.There’s an invitation given to His disciples to also follow Him and serve Him and to not love our lives so much. But to willingly give it up and allow the flesh, our “old man”, to die so that we gain eternal life.

Let’s be honest. Dying to self, parting with old habits or coping mechanisms, freedom from addictions, death of visions or dreams we’ve had, burying sin patterns, isn’t easy, doesn’t sound fun, and isn’t something we’d eagerly want to do. Even Jesus knew the agony that would come with His death and asked for that cup to be taken from Him. But He also knew the end result and the fruit and life that comes from death. Verse 26 even states that the Father will honor those who have chosen to serve and follow Jesus, giving up their own way and agenda for His. Hating their own life and giving it up in exchange for a life that follows and serves Jesus no matter the cost. What might Jesus be calling you to “die to” or hate in your own life - letting it die as you serve and follow Him? Be encouraged - spring is coming, which means new life and fruit that is eternal. - Jessica Glenn

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying an Examen & Tending Your Heart 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.
+ 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.

FOCUS ON OTHERS |
+ Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.
+ Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ 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!

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. Use as much or as little of this guide as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does.
+ Practice gratitude while playing or sing some worship music, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on today’s Old Testament scripture: 1 Kings 2:1-38

+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.” Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer through this morning’s Psalm:  Psalm 119:161-168

P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Pray a simple prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 12:12-19
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? (see Focus on Others)

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Humans do not like being told what to do. From the earliest age, kids often take every opportunity to reject authority and exercise their own, sometimes very strong, free will. Teens will do the opposite of what they are asked for no other reason than to be rebellious. Going against the rules seems to be in our nature. On top of that, our culture often teaches us to be free thinkers, forge our own paths, and do what feels right to us. And where does all this self guided living get us? Usually in trouble.
In today’s readings we see a call to follow God’s commands. David says to his son Solomon: “Be strong and be a man, and keep your obligation to the Lord your God to walk in his ways and to keep his statutes, commands, ordinances, and decrees.” It is interesting that David equated strength with obedience to God.
God gave the Hebrews very specific commands, decrees, etc. He gave us the example of Jesus. Our challenge is to overcome our human nature and the deception of this world and choose to follow God. - Mike Nank

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying an Examen & Tending Your Heart 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.
+ 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.

FOCUS ON OTHERS |
+ Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.
+ Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ 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!

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. Use as much or as little of this guide as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does.
+ Practice gratitude while playing or sing some worship music, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on today’s Old Testament scripture:1 Kings 1:28–53

+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.” Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer through this morning’s Psalm:  Psalm 119:153-160

P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Pray a simple prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 12:1-11
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? (see Focus on Others)

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
One of my favorite worship songs is “Alabaster Heart” by Bethel Music. (Check it out on our Spotify “Sunday Worship” playlist!) What exactly is an “alabaster” heart? It’s a beautiful image of the story we read today. The story is found in John 12:1-11. Here, we find a beautiful and intimate moment where Mary anoints Jesus’ feet with expensive perfume, wiping them with her hair. It’s an extravagant act of love and devotion. While some people, like Judas, saw it as a waste, Jesus recognized Mary’s heart. She wasn’t worried about appearances or the cost; she simply wanted to honor Jesus in the best way she could. Sometimes, our worship and service to Jesus might seem over the top to others, but true worship comes from a heart that’s willing to give its best for Him, no matter what anyone else thinks. What about you - do you care what anyone else thinks? The people that think your offering to Jesus is a waste of time, talent, or treasure? Or maybe the people saying you’re the waste of time? Do you ever wonder if what you have to offer Jesus might be wasted on Him, or even a waste of His time? 

Think about your life - your worship - in the here and now. How are you expressing your love for Jesus in physical, tangible ways? Is there anything you’re holding back because of what others might say or think? Or are you willing to give Him your very best—even when it feels risky or extravagant? Mary shows us that real devotion means putting Jesus first, regardless of what it costs us. Is there something in your life that you can bring before Jesus today as an act of worship, even if it feels uncomfortable or costly? No matter who you are, where you’ve been, or what you’ve done - Jesus sees you. He welcomes you. He values you, and He treasures the heart behind every gift offered to Him. - Dave Kubiak

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying an Examen & Tending Your Heart 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.
+ 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.

FOCUS ON OTHERS |
+ Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.
+ Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ 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!

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. Use as much or as little of this guide as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does.
+ Practice gratitude while playing or sing some worship music, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on today’s Old Testament scripture: 2 Samuel 23:18–24:25

+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.” Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer through this morning’s Psalm:  Psalm 119:137-144.

P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Pray a simple prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 11:31-44
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? (see Focus on Others)

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
“…I've been worried about a non-important place not being the place for me and, basically, the result being spiritual death. But Lazarus was physically dead and Jesus still came through. Although I don't feel like I'm going to "die" here it strains my time with God but it's developing a hunger that God wants. I just have to trust in his timing - he came 4 days "too late" for Lazarus but it was just on time for the glory of God!”

This is a note/journal of mine from about 6 years ago… the reading for today brought me back to it for obvious reasons. I was learning that God’s timing and reasons are so unknown to us sometimes, but so vastly bigger & better than our own logical reasoning! I’m STILL learning this today - what do we do when we are facing insurmountable odds and the clock is ticking? Trust God’s timing? No - that is usually the time when I go do the opposite of Carrie Underwood (sorry, Carrie) and MATTEO takes the wheel… and inevitably ends up in a ditch that Jesus so graciously tows me out of. This verse is a reminder of the glory that awaits in waiting on Jesus. It may not make sense, if we’re following His plan for us, it doesn’t have to!

My encouragement to you today is that we do serve an “on time God”! It may seem too late to me and you… But MAN, when he strings it all together you will be grateful for the process! - Matteo McGill

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying an Examen & Tending Your Heart 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.
+ 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.

FOCUS ON OTHERS |
+ Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.
+ Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ 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!

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. Use as much or as little of this guide as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does.
+ Practice gratitude while playing or sing some worship music, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on today’s Old Testament scripture: 2 Samuel 22:26-23:17

+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.” Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer through this morning’s Psalm:  Psalm 119:129-136.

P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Pray a simple prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 11:17-30
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? (see Focus on Others)

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
“Lord,” Martha said to Jesus, “if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.”

This passage really stuck out to me in today’s reading. I felt like Martha was conflicted; she had all this grief from losing her brother and maybe was a little frustrated with Jesus. She had faith that he could have saved Lazarus but wasn’t yet convinced he had the power to change her current situation. When Jesus says to her, “Your brother will rise again,” she responds, “I know he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day.” There was definitely hope that she would see Lazarus again one day, but she didn’t think she would see him again on this Earth. Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

I think Jesus was asking Martha to evaluate if she really trusted Him. I connected with Martha. How many times have I been faced with a situation where I could easily trust God and believe He not only had control over my situation but could blow my mind with what He was capable of doing? But instead, I put His power in a box and formed it into what I am capable of comprehending.

What if I chose to give Him control of my heart and mind instead and allowed myself to believe He was capable of radically changing my situation? - Liz Holland

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying an Examen & Tending Your Heart 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.
+ 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.

FOCUS ON OTHERS |
+ Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.
+ Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ 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!

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. Use as much or as little of this guide as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does.
+ Practice gratitude while playing or sing some worship music, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on today’s Old Testament scripture: 2 Samuel 22:1-25

+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.” Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer through this morning’s Psalm:  Psalm 119:121-128.

P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Pray a simple prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 11:1-16
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? (see Focus on Others)

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
As I look back on different seasons of my life, I can see that during difficult times, God was doing something. Of course, it's easier to see that on the other side of things, but sometimes in looking back, we can see where God was working the most. I don't always understand it, and I often wonder why God doesn't act the way I think he should. In this passage today, we see Jesus finding out that his dear friend, Lazarus is ill. It does not make sense to me why he stays where he is for two days instead of going right to him. But, it DOES say that he loves Lazarus, Martha and Mary. Then he tells his disciples that Lazarus is dead, and also that he is glad that he wasn't there when it happened - so that they may believe. There is something that God is doing when we go through loss, grief, pain, and challenging times. We don't see it. Others may not see it. We may not even see it this side of heaven. Certainly God does not cause the pain that we experience, but it's so easy for us to blame him when he doesn't fix it the way we ask him to. But God is still doing something. Sometimes it may be for others. It may be for us. We don't always get to know. So whatever you're going through today, take it to Jesus. Cry out to him. If you aren't sure how to do that, Psalm 3 is a great Psalm of lament that you can pray directly to God. Sometimes praying a Psalm can give words to what we are feeling. It's ok if you're feeling angry, sad, confused, hurt - or anything else. God wants to hear from you! - Gwyn Kubiak

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying an Examen & Tending Your Heart 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.
+ 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.

FOCUS ON OTHERS |
+ Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.
+ Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ 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!

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. Use as much or as little of this guide as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does.
+ Practice gratitude while playing or sing some worship music, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on today’s Old Testament scripture: 2 Samuel 21

+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.” Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer through this morning’s Psalm:  Psalm 119:113-120

P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Pray a simple prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 10:34-42
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? (see Focus on Others)

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
It’s that time of the year when our culture focuses on fear. We’ve created movies and shows with disturbing plots and terrifying images. We’ve created haunted houses and orchards. (Even as I type this my adult children are leaving for a haunted car wash. What?!) We even decorate our homes with skeletons, spiders, etc. While this is all in fun, most of the images and premises are based on evil; supernatural dark forces or our twisted human sinful nature. This is not an anti-Halloween take…I’m leading to a different thought. Bear with me.
There is plenty in this world that we could be afraid of: demons, sick-minded people, natural disasters, mental and physical illness, etc. But it struck me as I was reading today’s scriptures that we need only fear one thing in this life.
In Psalm 119 the psalmist, speaking to God says: “My flesh trembles for fear of you, and I am afraid of your judgments.”
The truth is this world is a troublesome, scary place. There are plenty of things that can hurt us. But as we know, this existence is temporary. We are spiritual beings, and there is an eternity available to us outside these bodies. Our fate is in the hands of the one, and only one, who will decide that fate…God. Jesus once said “Don’t fear those who kill the body but are not able to kill the soul; rather, fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” (Matthew 10:28)
What does it mean that we should FEAR God? Should we run from him like he’s a chainsaw wielding killer? By no means! This type of fear is more like deep, heavy, healthy respect. An acknowledgment that since God is the creator and sustainer of the entire universe, including us, he has ultimate authority, and he could end us just as easily as he began us. However, here’s the beautiful twist: he won’t. Speaking through the prophet Jeremiah, God said: “ I know the plans I have for you…plans for your well-being, not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jesus echoed this heart of God many times through his words and actions.
We give God plenty of reasons to give up on us, judge us guilty of disobedience, and condemn us. But he IS love. His mercies are new each day and he is always ready to receive us with open arms.
During this spooky season, fear God and God alone. Approach him with respectful humility and he will meet you with love and peace and power to face the far less scary things of this world. - Mike Nank

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying an Examen & Tending Your Heart 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.
+ 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.

FOCUS ON OTHERS |
+ Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.
+ Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ 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!

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. Use as much or as little of this guide as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does.
+ Practice gratitude while playing or sing some worship music, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on today’s Old Testament scripture: 2 Samuel 19:31-43 - 2 Samuel 20:1-26

+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.” Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer through this morning’s Psalm:  Psalm 119:105-112

P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Pray a simple prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 10:22-33
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? (see Focus on Others)

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Have you ever been in a “lose-lose” situation? Today’s reading brings new meaning to the old phrase, “Caught between a rock and a hard place.” In John 10:22-33, Jesus is having a pretty intense back and forth with the Jewish leaders who are questioning His identity. They claim to want a straight answer: “Are you the Messiah or not?” But the truth is, they’ve already made up their minds. I love how Jesus moves past the argument and reaches down into the soul. He moves beyond “words” to “works.” Essentially, Jesus points to the works He’s done, reminding them that His actions speak louder than words, and, rather than giving an “answer,” Jesus turns the question right back to them. Instead of their judgment, Jesus invites them to judge for themselves. It’s a great lesson for us! Sometimes, we might feel pressure to justify our faith or prove ourselves to others, but a relationship with Jesus is meant to be experienced, not just explained. When we walk closely with Him and see how He moves in our lives, that’s the best testimony we can share. So, take a moment to reflect today: Is anyone asking about who Jesus is in your life? What work has Jesus done that you might be able to share in response? Just like Jesus openly shares His relationship with Father God, make a bold declaration with your life today to stand with your Father God - even though that might lead to challenges and misunderstandings. When it does, take comfort in Jesus’ words - your Father God has you in His hands through it all. (v29) - Dave Kubiak

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying an Examen & Tending Your Heart 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.
+ 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.

FOCUS ON OTHERS |
+ Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.
+ Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ 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!

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. Use as much or as little of this guide as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does.
+ Practice gratitude while playing or sing some worship music, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on today’s Old Testament scripture: 2 Samuel 18:1-30

+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.” Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer through this morning’s Psalm:  Psalm 119:89-96.

P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Pray a simple prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 10:1-10
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? (see Focus on Others)

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
People have called Jesus a lot of things, but in today’s reading, Jesus calls Himself something strange - He says He is the "gate" for the sheep. At first glance, it’s a weird image to use to describe yourself, but this odd comparison becomes beautiful when we look again. With it, Jesus is saying that He’s the only way to real life, and anyone who enters through Him will find safety, freedom, and provision. Like the door that leads to all the comforts of your home, Jesus is the way in! But there’s more. As the “gate,” Jesus also keeps others out. Who? Jesus tells us there are thieves and robbers who try to mislead the sheep, but His voice is the one we can trust. It’s a simple yet powerful reminder: there’s a lot of noise in the world trying to steal our attention and even an enemy trying to lead us astray, but Jesus is the one voice that brings life, peace, and direction. The question is, are we tuned in to His voice or getting distracted by everything else?

It gets better. Jesus doesn’t just offer life—He promises “life to the full.” That’s not about having everything we want or living a perfect life without challenges, but about the richness of life with Him at the center. When we enter through the gate that is Jesus, we find purpose, security, and the freedom to be who God created us to be. It’s so easy to chase after other things, thinking they’ll fill us up, but only Jesus can give us that full, abundant life. Today, let’s take a step back and ask ourselves: Are we following His voice, or are we letting other things take the lead? Jesus came not just to save your life, but to give it - and give it abundantly. What step can you take to “walk through the Gate” to find all that God has waiting for you today? - Dave Kubiak

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying an Examen & Tending Your Heart 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.
+ 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.

FOCUS ON OTHERS |
+ Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.
+ Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ 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!

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. Use as much or as little of this guide as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does.
+ Practice gratitude while playing or sing some worship music, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on today’s Old Testament scripture: 2 Samuel 17

+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.” Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer through this morning’s Psalm:  Psalm 119:81-88.

P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Pray a simple prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 9:35-41
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? (see Focus on Others)

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
I believe miracles still happen all the time, and are a display of God’s strength. Blindness, deafness, and other thing can produce perseverance in the life of a person. It’s automatically humbling, and walking that out everyday requires great strength - God’s strength. It reminds me of one of my favorite Bible verses. 2 Corinthians 12:10 “So I take pleasure in weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and in difficulties, for the sake of Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” John chapter 9 tells the story of Jesus healing a man blind from birth. I don’t think anyone ever had faith in this blind man his entire life. I don’t think he knew what it even felt like to have someone consider his perspective as valuable. So when Jesus healed him, he went and washed the mud off, opened his eyes and boldly spoke that testimony. Even under heavy scrutiny from the Pharisees. Something great had happened to him, and he wasn’t going to deny it. When Jesus came to him again, this man immediately accepted Him as his Lord. John 9 ends with His message falling on deaf ears. Maybe the Pharisees refused to believe God could work through the little man. Maybe they thought if miracles, and healings didn’t happen through people like them then it couldn’t be from God. Today, let’s open our eyes and believe that Jesus heals. He restores all things through faith in Him. Everyone who has eyes to see and ears to hear has an opportunity today to further Jesus’ message of salvation through their own testimony. My prayer for you today is for an increase in Godly strength, and the boldness to walk through the hard things with faithful hope. - Rachel Hood

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying an Examen & Tending Your Heart 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.
+ 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.

FOCUS ON OTHERS |
+ Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.
+ Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ 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!

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. Use as much or as little of this guide as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does.
+ Practice gratitude while playing or sing some worship music, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on today’s Old Testament scripture: 2 Samuel 15:30-37 2 Samuel 16:1-23

+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.” Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer through this morning’s Psalm:  Psalm 119:73-80.

P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Pray a simple prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 9:13-34
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? (see Focus on Others)

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
In reading this account, the response of the Jewish leaders stuck out to me and made me think of their state of mind. The Jewish people had been without a prophet for centuries. These precious people were steeped in tradition and culture influenced by the leaders’ interpretation and guidance of the Law of Moses - their Bible, and how to live it out. This tradition was sometimes good and comfortable. It became a way of life they could rely on; it was predictable and familiar in their ever-changing outside world, dominated by the Romans. Then Jesus enters. In John 3:2, the Pharisees knew Jesus was a teacher from God because of the signs He performed. “No one can do these signs you do unless God is with Him.” In today’s passage, Jesus does another great “sign.” He heals a man born blind, and now the man can see. But the Pharisees get hung up on the timing of the healing. It happened on the Sabbath. God made the Sabbath so people could rest and spend time with Him. The Pharisees made it a day of rules to mandate no work and come to the Temple. I can’t say Jesus was intentionally challenging this tradition and way of life as much as doing the work of the Father along the way. This man needed healing. God said to heal the people both spiritually and physically. Jesus did just that and wasn’t bound by the laws of man but acted in service and love for the Father. The Pharisees saw the good Jesus was doing but made tradition and culture higher than a message from God, missing the Messiah living among them and pointing them to God, whom they worshiped.
Is Jesus doing something in your life, in your life group, or in your church that seems contrary to the culture and tradition you have found comforting? Is He challenging you where you are and daring you to come where He is leading? Jesus has done this to me many times and is currently challenging me, in fact, challenging me for over a year to join Him where He is leading. There is uncertainty, and if you know me, sooo many questions I’ve expressed to Him and others in my life. Like me, go to Jesus in prayer, seek wise counsel, and find rest in Him. Change isn’t always easy, but the rewards of following Jesus and being obedient are abundant. Let us not miss Jesus and what He is offering for the sake of comfort, culture, and “common sense.” - Renee Richter

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying an Examen & Tending Your Heart 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.
+ 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.

FOCUS ON OTHERS |
+ Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.
+ Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ 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!

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. Use as much or as little of this guide as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does.
+ Practice gratitude while playing or sing some worship music, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on today’s Old Testament scripture: 2 Samuel 15:1-29

+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.” Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer through this morning’s Psalm:  Psalm 119:65-72

P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Pray a simple prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 9:1-12
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? (see Focus on Others)

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Why do bad things happen to people? It is an age old question and one that Jesus’ disciples asked him about when they saw a man born blind. They asked Jesus whether the man had sinned or his parents that he might be born with this affliction. It is interesting that they assumed his blindness was a punishment by God of some kind. It is not surprising though. We live in a world of cause and effect…a transactional existence in which we assume: “you get what you pay for”, “there is no such thing as a free lunch”, “tit for tat”.  That’s the economy of our world.
But, God’s economy is different. He’s less concerned about paybacks and more focused on purpose. Just look at Jesus’ reply: “It is not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be displayed in him.” Jesus is saying that God had a plan to heal this man, and that his story would be able to teach the disciples on that day, and countless others including us today. And what do we learn? That God is in control, and that he is working toward the end game of bringing the good news of his grace to the world. 
And how should we respond to this reality?
Well look at what David said in our OT reading from today when he was being forced out of the city by the coming coop from his son Absalom. The priests loyal to him were trying to bring the ark of the covenant out of the city with David but he ordered them to take it back. He said that if God willed for him to return some day and see it again, then so be it. And he added: “...if God says ‘I have no pleasure in you’ behold, here I am, let him do to me what seems good to him.” Essentially David is accepting that God is in control, and that while David has his desires about how things should happen next, he accepts God’s plans as “good”.
I pray that when we face tough challenges in life we will trust that God is working all things together for good, for us and for his purposes on the Earth. - Mike Nank

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying an Examen & Tending Your Heart 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.
+ 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.

FOCUS ON OTHERS |
+ Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.
+ Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ 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!

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. Use as much or as little of this guide as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does.
+ Practice gratitude while playing or sing some worship music, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on today’s Old Testament scripture: 2 Samuel 13:34-39 - 2 Samuel 14

+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.” Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer through this morning’s Psalm:  Psalm 119:57-64

P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Pray a simple prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 8:42-59
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? (see Focus on Others)

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Like father, like son. I’m turning into my mother. You are your father’s son. Have you ever said one of these well-known phrases about someone, or had them said about you? From our favorite sports teams to mannerisms and traditions down to our values, decisions, and way of life - we tend to take after the ones we follow, whether we realize it or not. In John 8:42-59, Jesus doesn’t hold back when He tells the religious leaders that if they really knew God, they’d recognize Him as God's Son. But instead, they stubbornly refuse to listen, proving that old saying true. Jesus calls them out, saying they’re acting just like their father—but not the Father they think! They were so caught up in their own self-righteousness and pride, they couldn’t see the truth right in front of them—Jesus, the very Son of God. Jesus tells them that their stubbornness and refusal to embrace truth show who they’re really following—it’s not God! 

Do Jesus’ words hit close to home this morning? We might think we’re following God, but if our lives are marked by pride, self-righteousness, or resistance to truth, we’ve got some serious “family resemblance” issues to work on. The good news is that when we let go of our pride and open ourselves to Jesus, we start to look more like our true Father—one who leads us into freedom, grace, and love. So take a look in the mirror this morning, and allow your Father God to graciously and lovingly shape you into His image. Remember, you’re loved just as you are, not as you should be… God just loves you too much to let you stay that way.  - Dave Kubiak

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying an Examen & Tending Your Heart 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.
+ 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.

FOCUS ON OTHERS |
+ Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.
+ Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ 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!

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. Use as much or as little of this guide as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does.
+ Practice gratitude while playing or sing some worship music, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on today’s Old Testament scripture: 2 Samuel 12

+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.” Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer through this morning’s Psalm:  Psalm 119:41-48.

P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Pray a simple prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 8:12-30
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? (see Focus on Others)

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Jesus was met with adversity and judged. As he taught people, they disputed his testimony and who he really was. In John 8:12, Jesus says clearly, " I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life."

In my own experience, the loss of a loved one, a broken heart, or disappointment can feel heavy, dark and final. But in Jesus, we know there is so much more. That disappointment or broken heart can be restored and mended, because our peace and joy are in Christ, not our circumstances.This world can be cruel, full of hurt, loss, deception, and disappointment. That all sounds like darkness to me. We may only see glimpses now, but Jesus' light is that of love, the promise of eternal life, and the knowledge that God in heaven sees me and has a place for me where there is no hurt, loss, deception or disappointment. Now that sounds like Heaven!

Light is light – it doesn't need anything to illuminate itself– it doesn't need someone or something else to defend it. Jesus is that light! He doesn't need witnesses to expose him. But God gives us the choice to live in His light or in darkness. We are only here for a short while, and how we choose to live our lives on this earth matters. We can choose to be a reflection of Jesus' light and share the good news with others. When we live our lives daily in the knowledge of God's word (the Bible), we are walking in the light of Jesus, and showing the way to others. I am so thankful for a relationship with Jesus. Studying the Bible helps me develop that relationship. Who can you share the light of Jesus with today? - Marci Burk

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying an Examen & Tending Your Heart 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.
+ 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.

FOCUS ON OTHERS |
+ Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.
+ Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ 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!

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. Use as much or as little of this guide as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does.
+ Practice gratitude while playing or sing some worship music, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on today’s Old Testament scripture: 2 Samuel 10-11

+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.” Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer through this morning’s Psalm:  Psalm 119:33-40.

P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Pray a simple prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 8:1–11
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? (see Focus on Others)

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Jesus, teaching in the temple courts, is interrupted by the Pharisees and scribes and they bring a woman caught in adultery to test him to see how he would respond and how well he knew the law. According to the Jewish law, anyone caught in adultery would suffer the penalty of capital punishment/death. There was no question whether or not the woman was guilty, but what was on everybody's mind was how Jesus would respond. Jesus responds in the most brilliant way possible, which is no surprise. He doesn't say not to stone her, because that would go against the law. But incredibly, he challenges the accusers - that whoever is without sin should throw the first stone.

It was at this statement that every individual there realized their hypocrisy. Some have even speculated that many of the men who were there accusing her were guilty themselves of the very same sin, and realizing this they went away - afraid of having the same punishment inflicted on them that they wished to inflict on her. It was at this point that the woman realized that all of her accusers had left. Jesus tells her, “Those who wished  to condemn you have all left, and neither do I condemn you.” It’s a beautiful portrait of the heart of Christ to show mercy to this woman - and to us. Mercy is when God, out of His lovingkindness, withholds punishment that we rightfully deserve because of our sin. But he doesn't leave it there, like many do. Instead, Jesus takes it a step further and lets her know because of this very grace and mercy that has been shown to you, we should actually go and sin no more.

This directly lines up with Romans chapter twelve, where Paul said, because of the mercy you have received, present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God. We don't do right because we're afraid of punishment. We do what is right because we have received mercy and the only reasonable response to this incredible mercy is to present our bodies to God. The Bible says we all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. But, thank Jesus, our Lord is rich in mercy. Even in those times when it feels like everyone is against us, remember: if God is for you, who can be against you?  - Jewaun Glenn

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying an Examen & Tending Your Heart 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.
+ 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.

FOCUS ON OTHERS |
+ Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.
+ Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ 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!

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. Use as much or as little of this guide as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does.
+ Practice gratitude while playing or sing some worship music, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on today’s Old Testament scripture: 2 Samuel 8-9

+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.” Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer through this morning’s Psalm:  Psalm 119:25-32.

P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Pray a simple prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 7:45-52
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? (see Focus on Others)

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Have you ever heard the old adage “Keep your words sweet, you never know when you may have to eat them”? I am sure that the Pharisees were feeling this way after the resurrection. But let me get back to this passage in John. This is about the Pharisees sending the temple guards to arrest Jesus. Well, they return empty handed - only to evoke the anger and scorn of the Pharisees. When asked why they didn’t arrest Jesus, the guards reported that “The officers answered ‘Never did a man speak the way this man speaks.” (John 7:46) I am sure the guards were in awe of Jesus after encountering Him. If they thought He was just an ordinary man, I think they may have said instead that no other man speaks as this man. These men were so amazed by Jesus that they could not say anything other than the truth, no excuses here, just the honest truth. The Pharisees responded with scorn and contempt, saying “You have not also been led astray, have you?” They were accusing the guards of being ignorant, common people, with no sense. The Pharisees again refused to face the truth, instead remaining rooted in their inflated egos and claiming Jesus was just a troublemaker who was leading the people astray.

In verses 50 and 51, Nicodemus, also a Pharisee and part of the Sanhedrin, spoke up to the others and asked them, “Our law does not judge a man, unless it first hears from him and knows what he is doing, does it?” By speaking up, Nicodemus is making the others acknowledge that this is exactly what the law says. The law of Moses states that every man is entitled to a fair trial and considered innocent until proven guilty. For you see, Nicodemus had secretly met with Jesus and was impressed by His knowledge and words. Nicodemus had a gut feeling that Jesuse was more than just a mere man.

Naturally, the others were going to have none of Nicodemus’ questioning of their knowledge of scripture and the law. They began to ridicule Nicodemus just like they had the guards. In verse 52 they shout, “You are not also from Galilee, are you? Search and see that no prophet arises out of Galilee.” By saying this they are showing that they have no idea what they are talking about, because Jonah and Nahum, both earlier prophets that they knew about, were from the Galilee area.

These men were so quick to ridicule and criticize others that they refused to even consider that they might be the ones who were wrong. Constructive criticism is beneficial if done with compassion and love - as compared to destructive criticism, which is done with egotistical malice. We need to ask ourselves, “How well do I give criticism, and how well do I take it?” As a christian, you most likely will receive criticism at some point. (I know I have, for my beliefs.) But remember to live in such a way that no one will believe your critics, and to make sure your words are sweet in case you need to eat them one day. - Dawn Marie Custer

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying an Examen & Tending Your Heart 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.
+ 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.

FOCUS ON OTHERS |
+ Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.
+ Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ 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!

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. Use as much or as little of this guide as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does.
+ Practice gratitude while playing or sing some worship music, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on today’s Old Testament scripture: 2 Samuel 7

+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.” Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer through this morning’s Psalm:  Psalm 119:17-24.

P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Pray a simple prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 7:25–44
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? (see Focus on Others)

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
I’m not a pet person. I don’t hate animals, I just don’t want to live with them. My daughter, Trinity, has a dog named Davy Jones that lives with us. Davy and I get along fine. He knows I am the alpha, but I also play with him and occasionally take him on walks. Not because I love him, but because it is the right thing to do to care for him well. Safe to say Davy respects me and is glad for my care, but he is understandably never excited to see me. I come in the door and he doesn’t stir from whatever couch he’s plopped on.
But when Trinity comes home, it’s a different story, especially if she has been away for a few days. He hears her car outside and he goes bananas. He meets her at the door just bursting with energy and won’t stop licking her face. (gross)
So why does Davy react so differently to the two of us?
I’m just a guy who treats him like a dog. Trinity is Davy’s savior. She literally rescued him from the pound. She provides his food and care for him when he’s not well. She speaks life to him and treats him like her child, not just a dog.
In today’s reading, Jesus is teaching and ministering to crowds during a busy Jewish festival. We see very different reactions from the people in the crowd. To some people, he is just a guy, and there’s no shortage of reasons why he couldn’t possibly be special. But for others, they heard his words breathing life into them. They felt the love coming from him and they recognized him as their savior.
What do you feel when you read the words of Jesus? If you feel alive inside that is the Holy Spirit, flowing through you like , as Jesus said, streams of living water. Be excited, and lick Jesus’ face…metaphorically.
Maybe you start to feel something, but then doubt creeps in. Questions start to pop into your head. “Can this be true?” “Can this really be for me?” If this is happening I would invite you to stop overthinking it and allow the Holy Spirit to speak to you. Know that you are loved and God wants to connect with you. Don’t talk yourself out of hearing from God. - Mike Nank

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying an Examen & Tending Your Heart 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.
+ 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.

FOCUS ON OTHERS |
+ Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.
+ Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ 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!

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. Use as much or as little of this guide as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does.
+ Practice gratitude while playing or sing some worship music, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on today’s Old Testament scripture: 2 Samuel 5:17-25 - 2 Samuel 6

+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.” Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer through this morning’s Psalm:  Psalm 119:9-6.

P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Pray a simple prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 7:14–24
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? (see Focus on Others)

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Over the last few weeks, my kids have been in a season of auditions and testing at school. As I’ve watched and heard them studying and rehearsing lines, I’ve thought back on my own time in school. Remember the days of cramming every second full of studying before a big test? Or going over line by line exactly what you were going to say in a presentation? If you’re like me, chances are you were able to get information crammed into your head, but it was crowded out or forgotten the moment the test was over. We may have learned information in the short term, but did that “head knowledge” ever make it’s way down to our heart, where transformation happens? In today’s reading, that’s what Jesus says the difference between “learning” and “wisdom” really is. While Jesus points out that the pharisees and religious leaders knew a lot of information and laws - on the surface they “appeared” to be wise - true wisdom doesn’t come from head knowledge, degrees hanging on walls, or surface level appearances. Things aren’t always as they seem in God’s kingdom. Something about Jesus, who by all appearances was just a working class guy from a poor neighborhood, hit different. When He taught, it carried weight. Authority. Credibility. It came from a place of real relationship with God and lived experience with Him. That’s what wisdom is all about. So today, don’t stop at head knowledge. Meditate on God’s truth in scripture. Let it get down deep below the surface and into your heart, where it can transform your thoughts, attitudes, beliefs, and perspectives. And then, wise up: put God’s Word into action!  - Dave Kubiak

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying an Examen & Tending Your Heart 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.
+ 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.

FOCUS ON OTHERS |
+ Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.
+ Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ 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!

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. Use as much or as little of this guide as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does.
+ Practice gratitude while playing or sing some worship music, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on today’s Old Testament scripture: 2 Samuel 3:1-34

+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.” Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer through this morning’s Psalm:  Psalm 118:22-29.

P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Pray a simple prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 6:60-71
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? (see Focus on Others)

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
I love music and going to concerts. For years (and in many cases, still today), the only option for purchasing tickets to concerts was Ticketmaster. Sure, we didn’t like it. It was/is expensive. And on top of it all, despite paying “convenience” charges it wasn’t actually all that convenient or efficient. But, if you wanted to buy tickets, there was nowhere else to go. Kind of a weird set up for today’s passage, but hear me out.

In John 6:60-71, we see many of Jesus' followers struggling with His difficult teachings. When Jesus talked about being the "bread of life" and that they needed to "eat His flesh" and "drink His blood," it wasn’t just confusing—it was downright uncomfortable. Many couldn’t handle it, and they walked away. But when Jesus asked the twelve if they wanted to leave too, Peter responded, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”

Have you ever asked God those same words? “Where else am I going to go?” Especially when we face tough moments in our faith, this question comes from a place of honesty, vulnerability, and authenticity that I find refreshing. We may not like our circumstance or understand God’s leading, but where else would we go? Far from the hopeless “no other option” of Ticketmaster, though, this question comes from a place of hope and confidence when it’s directed toward Jesus. Following Jesus isn’t always easy or comfortable, but He’s the one who gives life, even when we don’t fully understand. Sometimes faith requires us to trust beyond what makes sense. Like Peter, we’re invited to hold on to Jesus, knowing that His words lead us to life—even when the road gets hard. Is there anyone or anything else, really? Where else would we go? Let that question drive you closer to Jesus today. There’s nowhere and no one else you’ll find life. - Dave Kubiak

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying an Examen & Tending Your Heart 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.
+ 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.

FOCUS ON OTHERS |
+ Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.
+ Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ 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!

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. Use as much or as little of this guide as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does.
+ Practice gratitude while playing or sing some worship music, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on today’s Old Testament scripture: 2 Samuel 2

+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.” Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer through this morning’s Psalm:  Psalm 118:15-21.

P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Pray a simple prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 6:52–59
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? (see Focus on Others)

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
For me this is definitely one of those readings that makes me slow down and read a couple of times so that I truly understand what Jesus is saying. I think sometimes I/we get stuck on only seeing the literal translation of what we are reading and do not see what’s behind the words. These verses definitely fall into that “Jesus wants us to do what?” category if we aren’t slowing down to really listen and understand. These verses strike me as an invitation to become one with the Lord. We all talk about being one with the Lord but are we really living into this? Jesus invites us to abide in him as he abides in us. When he asks us to eat His flesh and drink His blood, Jesus is inviting us to partake of His presence until we are full with the life of God. Similar to taking communion, where we eat the bread that signifies His body and drink the juice that represents His blood. In doing so, we are brought into increasing “communion” with the love and life of our Lord and Savior. I think what Jesus is calling us to do is stop looking at Him as a character in a book and unite our bodies and lives with him so that we may have real life. He is calling us to not only read the word but to also be a living representation of the word. What do you think? God Loves You And So Do I - Scott Rose

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying an Examen & Tending Your Heart 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.
+ 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.

FOCUS ON OTHERS |
+ Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.
+ Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ 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!