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8/17/2020

Just Focus...

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As quickly as our lives have slowed down, so many of us have somehow found a way to busy ourselves again, filling our days with non-stop information, interactions, noise, and to-do lists. 

FOCUS seems a hard thing to discipline ourselves to do when everything moves at the speed of light and the entire wealth of information the world has to offer is one google search away. We've been conditioned to want instant gratification and accept nothing less than "right now". Our attention spans have shortened drastically. Is reading more than an short article or the max amount of characters in a tweet a challenge for you sometimes? I practically fall asleep every time I attempt to read a regular book!

FOCUS feels distant and BLURRY feels more realistic. Can you relate?

It's hard to be a Mary in a world built for Marthas! But, sis, we were made to put aside the day's work for a time - it will be there when we are done - and sit at the feet of Jesus. We were made to give him our whole hearts, our whole minds, and our whole attention everyday. Have you taken the time to do that yet?

We aren't looking to drop some wisdom on you today - we are looking to point you to the Giver of all wisdom. Today, we are hoping to give you space to FOCUS on Jesus through some scripture for reflection, worship music for soaking, and a  prayer to pray today. 

WORSHIP PLAYLIST

Instrumental Worship  

Top 40 Worship (August 2020)

Traditional Worship

SCRIPTURES FOR MEDITATION

Joshua 1:8
Psalm 77:12-13
Psalm 143:5
Psalm 145:5
Psalm 19:14
Psalm 113:3
James 4:8
Philippians 4:8
Psalm 63:6
Psalm 16:8
Psalm 92:1-2
Psalm 42:1
Jeremiah 29:13
Jeremiah 24:7
Isaiah 26:3
Psalm 112:7
Psalm 91:14-15
Colossians 3:1-2
Philippians 3:13-14
Hebrews 12:1-2
Hebrews 3:1
Proverbs 5:1-2
Proverbs 4:25-27
Psalm 119:6
Jonah 2:7
Colossians 3:23-24
Matthew 6:24
Matthew 6:33
Romans 8:5
Proverbs 16:3
​1 Corinthians 10:31

MEDITATION PRAYER (Rebecca Barlow Jordan)
Lord, quiet my heart and still my soul as I wait on you during these moments alone. I recognize you as a holy and majestic God - one who deserves great praise and glory. All of creation testifies to your awesome and unique works. There is no one like you, no other god worthy of honor.

I want to focus on You, Lord, and to shut out all the distractions of the world. For these next few moments, it's just you and me, God. You are Spirit, but you are a God who knows us so intimately. I like to imagine you as literally sitting here beside me, because of your promise that you are Emmanuel - always "with us."

As I think about the truths in your Word, may the meditation of my heart be sweet and honoring to you. I am not trying to clear out my mind. I simply want to empty me of self and fill me with your Holy Spirit.

I long for your presence, Lord. Narrow my thoughts to include only those things that are honorable, truthful, beautiful, pure, and praiseworthy. I ask for your wisdom to apply these truths to my life morning, noon, and night - literally all through the day. For you are worthy to be praised all the time.

I remember your great faithfulness in the past and am so grateful that you shower fresh mercy and grace on me each morning. I rehearse your goodness through answered prayer and personal reminders to me daily of your love for me. Even when I feel alone or distant from you, you draw me back into your presence when I purposely slow down and draw close to you. I treasure your Word and want to chew on the truths you reveal to me today. As I pull apart each piece and relect on every principle and word of instruction, I'm asking you to guide me and teach me what you want me to know.

Is there a promise here for me to remember? Is there an action I need to take or a sin to forsake? Is there more for me to understand about your character? Help me to personalize your message to my heart today. Your Word is powerful. I celebrate the strength and wisdom you will give me as I learn to honor and glorify you more.

I need you and love you, Lord. And I ask you to speak through your Word and in these quiet moments together. Whisper or shout into my spirit, whichever you want, and whatever I need the most. But most of all, just receive my praise as I focus my thoughts only on you. I'm listening and anticipating as I read and meditate on your beautiful Word. 

In Jesus' name, Amen.




Sisters, we want to encourage you to join us on the Community today. We'll be there ready to hear what God is sharing with you as you focus and turn your ears and eyes on Him today. What is He teaching you? Where is He leading you? What is He showing you?

How can we partner with you as you passionately pursue Him today?

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    The Pretty & Wise Collective features:
    Lyndsay Terry - Writer, Speaker, & Creative Arts Pastor @ Kindred Church (Richmond, VA), www.LyndsayTerry.com
    Gay Idle - Author, Speaker, & Pastor's wife @ Kindred Church (Richmond, VA), www.GayIdle.com
    Alexandria Brown - Speaker, Ministry leader, & Worship Leader @ Joy! Church (Fernley, NV)
    Olivia Caldwell - Homeschool momma, Writer, MOPS mom, & Bible Study Leader (Chesterfield, VA)
    Sherry Poundstone - Author, Speaker, & Pastor's wife @ Joy! Church (Fernley, NV)
    Angie Reese - Girl mom, Teacher, & Missionary (Powhatan, VA)

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