Author: joelnagel

Janelle Sabin

9.17.2020

Jonah

Summarize what you read in one paragraph:

God told Jonah to go to Nineveh and tell them they will be overthrown due to their wrong doings. Jonah was scared and tried to flee the word of God by boat to a new land (Tarshish) but God sent large winds that almost capsized the boat. Jonah finally realized his wrong doing, told the seaman to throw him overboard so that the storm would stop (which it did immediately) then after spending 3 days in the belly of a large fish (sent by God) Jonah was called again to go to Nineveh. Once Jonah arrived and proclaimed that Nineveh would be overthrown the entire city believed in God and therefore people “from the greatest of them to the least of them” started to fast and put on sackcloth to ask for forgiveness and to be saved. God saw this and took mercy on them.  Jonah was then angry because he didn’t want to leave his home for this long journey just for God to forgive the city so easily but God pointed out that we must not only have mercy for things that benefit our life but other people’s lives as well. 

What is one key verse?

Jonah 4: 10-11; And the Lord said, “You pity the plant, for which you did not labor, nor did you make it grow, which came into being in a night and perished in a night. And should not I pity Nineveh, that great city, in which there are more than 120,000 persons who do not know their right hand from their left, and also much cattle?”

How does what you read change your vision of God?

I am always struck by the graciousness of God. Here he is, sending Jonah on a long journey to tell a city that they will perish because of the wrong they have been doing and once they ask for forgiveness he is quick to accept this. 

How does what you read change your vision of yourself or others?

In our current culture where we have social media coverage of everything we’ve thought from a young age to our current life we need to be more forgiving and understanding of change within one another. God calls us to help each other see the way of God and to leave our poor following behind. We cannot keep blaming people for bad things they have done in the past, we need to see how they have changed and the good they are spreading now. 

How will you Go With God because of this reading? (What is an action step?)

In the beginning Jonah ran from the word of God. He knew God was merciful and that even if he made the long journey to Nineveh, God would probably still take mercy on the city and spare them so he didn’t want to go. Once all of that came true Jonah was mad at God. God then pointed out that if Jonah can have compassion for a plant (as shelter) why can’t God have compassion for people? This is very eye opening in our current time where so many of us are forgetting that we all need some compassion. It is okay to tell others when they are going against God but we cannot forget that once they make their peace with God that we must see that change as well. 

Where did you see Jesus in these chapters? (What made you think about Jesus?)

When Jonah was in the belly of the fish and surrendered to God I thought about when Jesus was on the cross and surrendered to God. On the cross Jesus called out for God to help before dying and in the belly of the fish Jonah prayed about how God has saved him when he has been at his lowest and says that “I am driven away from your sight; yet I shall again look upon  your holy temple”. 

Mindy Richmond

9.16.2020

Obadiah

Summarize what you read in one paragraph:

So, this whole book, one chapter with 21 verses, describes a vision that the prophet Obadiah had.The first 9 verses are the chastisement from God to the people of Edom, for their pride. God warns that He will bring them down from this lofty place they believe to be. The next few verses, 10-14 explain that Edom is being punished for the harm they caused their brother nation, Israel. These verses were a bit confusing to me, but I believe that it all goes back to Jacob and Esau, who somehow became the nations of Israel and Edom, respectively. Finally, the last section, verses 15-21, we are told that justice will prevail. Edom will be destroyed for their sinfulness, but Jacob/Israel will possess the land that God promised them and will no longer have to live in exile. The kingdom shall be the Lord’s. 

What is one key verse?

Verse 21: “Saviors shall go up to Mount Zion to rule Mount Esau, and the kingdom shall be the Lord’s.”

How does what you read change your vision of God?

It reminds me that pride is something God takes very seriously, and also that He is a God of justice, and will reward those who humbly serve Him.

How does what you read change your vision of yourself or others?

It’s interesting to read about these people living in Biblical times who struggled with pride and greed, and to realize that not a whole lot has changed. We still see all that pride and greed today. The good thing is that God is still here and just as busy as ever, working on our hearts.

How will you Go With God because of this reading? (What is an action step?)

I want to be more aware of when pride is creeping into my heart.

Where did you see Jesus in these chapters? (What made you think about Jesus?)

This was a tough one, but I saw Jesus at the end of the chapter, when you read how justice prevailed and people were given new land to possess.

Crista Reaves

9.15.2020

Amos 8-9

Summarize what you read in one paragraph:

Amos chapter 8 continues with Amos’s visions of the coming day of the Lord. It starts with Israel being compared to a basket of summer fruit and then the Lord telling Amos how the end has come upon Israel (just as the summer basket of fruit is becoming overripe because the season is over). The people were not caring for the poor and needy among them but were only caring for themselves. God says he will bring judgement. 

Amos chapter 9 continues with the judgement of Israel. God says that he will find the Isrealites, that they cannot hide from him anywhere… He will find them and bring destruction. However, at the end of chapter 9 there is hope! God says that he will raise up what has fallen, and that he will rebuild the ruins and restore his people Israel. 

What is one key verse?

Amos 9:14 “I will restore the fortunes of my people Israel, and they shall rebuild the ruined cities and inhabit them; they shall plant vineyards and drink their wine, and they shall make gardens and eat their fruit.”

How does what you read change your vision of God?

Amos reminds me how powerful and perfect God is. God can bring judgement while simultaneously being merciful and loving… all of his actions are perfect. 

How does what you read change your vision of yourself or others?

No matter what sin entangles me, I can always repent and be rebuilt with God. Our lowest points in life can be the beginning of something great when we put our faith, trust, and hope in God. 

How will you Go With God because of this reading? (What is an action step?)

To be more self-aware. Consider what sins are dragging me down and confess and repent! Ask others what they see in my character so I can seek to change… why wait to be destroyed?

Where did you see Jesus in these chapters? (What made you think about Jesus?)

Just how God showed Amos that his judgement was coming, Jesus went from place to place teaching about God and sent his disciples out to preach to others that they should repent (Mark 6:12). 

Doug Reaves

9.14.2020

Amos 6-7

Summarize what you read in one paragraph:

Israel is living like fat cats. They are complacent and sinful and the prophet Amos is warning them that this will not end well. He tells them to look to other nations and see the ruin. Do they think the same thing will not happen to them? There is mention of Locust devouring their wealth but God had relented. God will not continue to relent and show mercy. Amos’s preaching is not adhered to and the priest Amaziah and the king tell him to leave. Amos can’t leave. He has been sent by God to preach destruction.

What is one key verse?:

Amos 6:6 “You drink wine by the bowlful and use the finest lotions, but you do not grieve over the ruin of Joseph.”

I see this today. 1: I see MANY people who drink too much alcohol and think it’s okay. 2. God’s church appears to be struggling but many people are more concerned about their jobs, hobbies, comforts and politics. Who bleeds for God’s church?

How does what you read change your vision of God?

It doesn’t. It reminds me that we reap what we sow. Galatians 6. God has always been consistent. If we choose to live sinful lives we don’t always feel the effects immediately but the destruction of sin to our lives will come. 

How does what you read change your vision of yourself or others?

Sin is serious. Sin that is not dealt with will ruin us. As the years go by we will see sin ruin individuals, families and churches if we don’t repent.

How will you Go With God because of this reading?: (What is an action step?)

I’m trying to develop the courage to point out sin where I see it. I’m trying to make sure there is no plank in my own eye. I’m praying that people will be humble and grateful. I’m ignoring people who think I’m too blunt

Where did you see Jesus in these chapters?: (What made you think about Jesus?)

Jesus spoke the truth so plainly and so courageously. 

Stephanie Hinsch

9.12.2020

Amos 3-5

Summarize what you read in one paragraph:

Amos 3-5 talks about how the Israelites have turned from God. They had still been offering sacrifices to God but they did not offer justice for the poor or act righteously. Therefore, God hates their worship.  The Israelites were also worshipping other gods. God had even sent his prophets to the Israelites, to warn them what was going to happen if they did not repent. The Lord declared that the Day of the Lord was coming and it will not be a happy event; it will be full of darkness and they will be conquered and sent into exile. 

What is one key verse?

“‘You only have I chosen of all the families of the earth; therefore I will punish you for all your sins.“

 Amos 3:2

How does what you read change your vision of God?

Even though the Israelites were offering sacrifices, God did not accept them because they were not taking care of the poor and treating others equally. I have a better understanding that God doesn’t just want us to participate in church, but to actually take care of others, while putting God first.

How does what you read change your vision of yourself or others?

I have a better understanding about how I can be like the Israelites. They sinned over and over; yet, God still loved them and wanted them to turn to him. Just like the Israelites were supposed to take care of their own that were in need, God wants us to take care of the those in need too.  

How will you Go With God because of this reading? (What is an action step?)

I will be able to remember my shortcomings before God and be more thankful to Jesus for covering my sins with his blood. I will also be remembering to take care of others more and not just think of myself or my family.

Where did you see Jesus in these chapters? (What made you think about Jesus?)

I see Jesus in these verses through how much God was willing to put the Israelites through, just to try and help them come back to them. He was even willing to let his son die on the cross for us, to allow us to come to him. 

Peter Hinsch

9.11.2020

Amos 1-2

Summarize what you read in one paragraph:

In these chapters Amos declares God’s judgment on the nations around Israel and eventually Israel itself.  God has major issues with the idolatry and injustice taking place in the whole region and he is pulling no punches letting them know their punishment for their evil behavior is coming.

What is one key verse?

Amos 1:2  “He said:  ‘The LORD roars from Zion and thunders from Jerusalem; the pastures of the shepherds dry up, and the top of Carmel withers.’”

How does what you read change your vision of God?

When God decides it is time for his wrath to be poured out, he doesn’t mess around.  He will not tolerate wicked behavior and the oppression of vulnerable people.  It’s a terrible thing to fall under the wrath of God!

How does what you read change your vision of yourself or others?

I definitely do not want to be on the receiving end of God’s wrath.  I need to make sure every day I am fighting for the souls of the harassed and helpless around me.  

How will you Go With God because of this reading? (What is an action step?)

I need to make sure I am confessing and repenting of sin, forgiving others as well, so I am always covered by the blood of Jesus.

Where did you see Jesus in these chapters? (What made you think about Jesus?)

The blood of Christ is literally the only thing standing between God and my complete and utter destruction.  I am totally hopeless without him.   Like all the nations listed in Amos 1-2, I have sinned greatly and deserve to be annihilated.  Thanks be to Jesus who took my punishment for me and gave me a chance to know God!!!

Tj Wooden

9.10.2020

Joel

Summarize what you read in one paragraph:

Joel telling two poems about “The Day of the LORD” where the both poem talks about destruction upon his people. The first one is an past event where God will send an plague of Locusts upon Israel like with the Egyptians for Exodus. The second is a future event where God sends an army Locust which represent God’s army and destroys everything in sight. Which called Joel to repent, fast, and pray in the name of the LORD for mercy and spare his people for their wrong doings. With Joel actions and recognizing the situation, God did show mercy and spared his people by driving out all those horrible things and help them restore their land and gave them many blessings.

 What is one key verse?

Joel 2: 12-13

“Even now,” declares the LORD, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.”

Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the LORD your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.

How does what you read change your vision of God or others?

With recognizing our sins and owning up to it by repenting and fasting like Joel did, God will show us mercy but only that we “truly” change ourselves before God eyes! We cannot fake and lie or repent “once” in God’s eyes just to seek his mercy for a mistake that we caused on purpose.

Action step/how will you go with God because of this?

God wants us to love him and go to him in our darkest hours. I will seek input on my character from others and learn how to correct and change my ways in God’s eyes.

How do you see Jesus through this?

I see Jesus as being a good parent that want to discipline us and guide us to the right path we must take for our lives.

DJ and Stephanie Powell

9.9.2020

Hosea 10-12

Summarize what you read in one paragraph: The Lord laments at Israel for their inability to focus on what is right. The one true God. They forgot who God was/is.

What is one key verse?

Hosea 13: 4

“But I have been the Lord your God
    ever since you came out of Egypt.
You shall acknowledge no God but me,
    no Savior except me.”

How does what you read change your vision of God? It reminds me that there is only one God. There is no room for any other.

How does what you read change your vision of yourself or others? It reminds me that sometimes our idols can be our own ego.

How will you Go With God because of this reading? (What is an action step?) I will take more time to remember where I came from and who got me this far in life. Who’s responsible for my very existence and each breath that I take.

Where did you see Jesus in these chapters? (What made you think about Jesus?) Hosea 14: 8- ” O Ephraim, what have I to do with Idols? It is I who answer and look after you. I am like an evergreen cypress; from me comes your fruit.

In this verse I think of the idea of good fruit and the parable Jesus spoke about in regards to bearing good fruit. Also Jesus is the vine in (or tree) in which we grow from.

Josh and Jennie Baumann

9.8.2020

Hosea 9-11

Summarize what you read in one paragraph:

Israel is failing and has forgotten who God really is. God is angry but forgiving–Israel has been given so much with the expectancy to do much, but they squander it. Chapters 9 and 10 detail the consequences and challenges. However, Chapter 11 discusses God’s promise to love and lift up Israel. In His sovereignty and omnipotence, He could have destroyed the people, but chooses not to.

What is one key verse?

Hosea 11:8: “”How can I give you up, Ephraim? How can I hand you over, Israel? How can I treat you like Admah? How can I make you like Zeboyim? My heart is changed within me; all my compassion is aroused.”

It proves to us that God is well-rounded. We try to peg him as one-dimensional but God has emotions and a heart. He is impacted by our decisions, good or bad. He isn’t uncaring. He loves us deeply.

How does what you read change your vision of God?

It reinforces how we view God by reminding us of who we are before Him. We fail daily. We forget who God is, but God never forgets us. He loves us endlessly even though we deserve punishment.

How does what you read change your vision of others?

We can only see the person in front of us–we need to make a conscious decision to see beyond people’s sin when they hurt us and recognize the potential for love underneath it all.

Action step/how will you go with God because of this?

God chooses to see us with love and as our potential, not as the sinners we are or for the punishment we deserve. He sees the best in us. The scriptures we read remind us to look for and to assume the best in everyone. 

It also reminds us of God’s strength when we struggle to see beyond people’s sin. God is the only one who can change our hearts.

How do you see Jesus through this?

We saw Jesus as the ultimate example. Just as God loved and led Israel through multiple ways both cognizant and unrealized, Jesus does the same for us. Consequences are a way God shows Israel love, and Jesus died as a way to reconcile us for the ultimate consequence.

Micah Norwood

9.7.2020

Hosea 7-8

Summarize what you read in one paragraph:

These chapters talk about how despite the many gifts and love that God provides to Israel and to Ephraim, they still tend to turn from God and to the world for their joy and happiness by setting up idols and kings without God’s blessings for the rulers they choose. This is despite God’s warnings of the destruction that would bring to the people and His willingness to still love and forgive them if they were to come back to Him.

What is one key verse?

Hosea 7: 13  “Woe to them, for they have wandered from Me! Destruction to them, because they have rebelled and trespassed against Me! Though I would redeem them, yet they have spoken lies against Me”.

How does what you read change your vision of yourself or others?

Reading through these chapters has made me want to look more into myself and see if I’m putting anything into my life that God has not blessed for me, just as the Israelites would anoint kings without God’s blessing and removed kings that God did bless. 

How will you Go With God because of this reading? (What is an action step?)

I will try to look into what I want in my life and pray that if there is anything I’m doing at all without God’s blessing that I will turn towards God and try to listen to Him more for what He wants for my life, instead of what I want. This way I’m still keeping God first and foremost in my life, instead of raising anything else up higher than it should be.

Where did you see Jesus in these chapters? (What made you think about Jesus?)

Hosea 7:13 really shows me Jesus the most in these chapters, because it describes that despite whatever we do in our life and how far we stray from God, He still desires this relationship with us and wants us to be redeemed. He wanted this so much for us that He sent Jesus here to Earth so that we may have the chance to be redeemed and live forever with God in the Kingdom of Heaven.