2020 Bible Vision

Melissa Brewer

7.9.2020

Proverbs 22-24

Summarize what you read in one paragraph:

Wisdom has so many benefits and will save us from poverty and ruin. The choices we make are up to us. Best of all, God will rejoice when our heart is wise.

What is one key verse?

Don’t be jealous of sinners, instead always fear the Lord. For then you will have a future, and your hope will never fade.

Proverbs 23:17-18

How does what you read change your vision of God?

God wants the best for us. He wants us to be wise in our actions and words so that we can have a wonderful full future and to be hopeful when life gets hard. And He doesn’t withhold this wisdom from us. Proverbs has so many good tidbits of wisdom. He provides the answers in this complex world. 

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

I realized how important it is to fear the Lord and to revere him. When we fear God, we start to care more about what he thinks of us than what we think of ourselves or what the people around us do. Our desires start to line up with what God wants for our lives and is a good protection from the temptations in our world. This includes working hard, not being distracted with money, not getting drunk and more…

How will you Go With God because of this reading? 

I will go confidently with God. (Prov 22:19) I will continue to read the bible, pay close attention to his words and apply them to my life. And above all, I will fear God to keep me rooted in his ways and not my own.

Where did you see Jesus in these chapters?

Jesus was amazingly wise while on earth. He was a skilled carpenter. He was humble in circumstance and in the way he spoke. He was friends with the rich and the sinner without letting it be a stumbling block to his mission. He spoke in parables so one would have to seek out what he was saying. He was not addicted to wine. He did not gloat when his enemy fell but prayed for them. He was a wise warrior. And I think this was rooted in his reverence and fear of God. He constantly went away to pray to focus on God.

Ryan Brewer

7.8.2020

Proverbs 18-21

Summarize what you read in one paragraph:

As with all the chapters in the main section of the book of Proverbs, chapters 18-21 display a dynamic array of wisdom, altering the train of thought with every verse. There is no flow of ideas or climactic buildup. But themes undulate through the text, making it likely for the eager reader to see some encouragement or needed wisdom for any life circumstance. These three chapters seem to have a higher density of verses about speaking and holding silence. The theme of speaking wisely is particularly helpful to consider in a time of tumultuous politics and agitated societal dynamics.

What is one key verse?

Proverbs 18:4 “The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters, but the fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook.”

How does what you read change your vision of God?

It takes work to understand the depth and complexities of what a person is saying. People often mask their true meanings in euphemisms; they conceal their intentions; they paint the ideal about themselves rather than the reality; they use hyperbole when speaking of others. It takes work to draw out a person. It is a deep well. But God gives wisdom that is easy to access and flows through its course gracefully.

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

I recognize that people have strong opinions about a lot of things they cannot control. It is an immense task to try show them that the way they are approaching a situation is not helpful. They speak, but their meaning is a deep well. Rather than change others, the best thing I can do is go to God for his wisdom, which is given freely.

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

I will not get caught up in the concerns of this world. I only want to know God, please God, and share God with others. I will focus my energy on learning his Word and sharing my faith.

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

When Jesus was approached with challenging questions that had deep political complexity in his day, he spoke with simple wisdom. He referred back to early parts of scripture and made complicated things simple. His words were human, they were deep wells. But Jesus’ words were also divine. They were a bubbling brook. I want to sit by that brook always.

Noah Price

7.7.2020

Proverbs 14-17

Key Verse

Proverbs 14:7 “Leave the presence of a fool, for there you do not meet any words of knowledge.”

Vision of God

When I was reading these passages, I felt as if God was laying out what wise living and foolish living gives us. If we live wise, HE is pleased… if we live foolishly, we will eventually be punished for living the wrong way. Also, I felt as if God was trying to relay the message of “Focus on yourself, and surround yourself with the wise,” to sum it up. God is the judge, the redeemer, and the healer. He has got us no matter what and will take care of us in the way He sees fit. 

Go with God // Vision of others

After reading all this, I was thinking how we all surround ourselves by a lot of people every day. Although we do have opportunities to choose who we surround ourselves with, there are plenty of times where we have no choice… it may be at work, school, home, or even the store, and if there is no wise people to surround yourself by… be the wise person yourself for other people to surround instead of trying to fit in and be in folly like others. . We may not have the choice of who we are with sometimes, but we have a choice in how we live and act. 

Jesus

I saw Jesus when I was reading about the ways wise people live. Jesus lives in a way that very much pleases God, and for example, in the section I read, God is pleased blesses those who live in a wise manner. 

Stephen Van Bueren

7.6.2020

Proverbs 10-13

While chapters 1-9 speak large in part to the idea, blessing(s) and pursuit of wisdom, chapter 10 (and through the rest of the book) actually begins what we have often come to understand as the “proverbs” of King Solomon, and the practical wisdom for living that we gain from them. 

A key verse(s) that really stood out to me was… 

…actually not a key verse, but rather a key concept. Throughout chapters 10-13 (in the ESV translation) there are 34 references to the word RIGHTEOUS. There are an additional 16 references to a similar vein of thinking – be it INTEGRITY, UPRIGHT and RIGHTEOUSNESS. That is a total of 50 references to the concept/idea, and the importance of, living a righteous life. Living a life of integrity. Living an upright life. Being known for our righteousness.

To be honest, I did not count how many times these words were used throughout the rest of the book of Proverbs. But I think it would be a fair assumption that the theme is carried throughout the book – as well as the entire Bible!

How does what you read change your vision of God? I wouldn’t say that it changes my vision of God – but rather it reminds me of how important it is to God that I am a righteous man. A man of integrity, who strives to live an upright and righteous lifestyle. Of course I know that I will not be perfect, and God knows that – as He remembers that I am but dust – He remembers how I was created/formed. So while God is gracious, patient and forgiving – God also has a very high expectation for me to respond to his graciousness, patience and forgiveness with a right kind of living.

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

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

Well, since Jesus is the ultimate benchmark of righteousness – albeit a bit cliché-ique (yes that it a word) – I am going to try to daily be asking myself the very popular 1990’s question…

What would Jesus Do – WWJD? 

Sometimes we can make things a whole lot more complicated that things need to be. Often we can get ourselves out of difficult situations by very simple practices. At any given moment, in any given situation – pause and ask yourself WWJD? 

I can promise you this – if there is any since of humility within us – that considering this very simple question will often times bring very great clarity!

So, as you go about your day today, “pretend” as if Jesus were right there with you (of course we all know that he is ☺) and then ask yourself – or better yet ask him – Lord, what would you do in this situation!

Tatiana Reinbrecht

7.04.2020

Proverbs 4-9

Summary

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!! Happy 244th birthday, America! 

With these chapters in Proverbs we see a difference between the Wise and the Simple person. Someone who is trying to “Get Wisdom at Any Cost” and the other who is being warned about adultery, folly, and even adulterous women (or man). We need to be equipped and hear the calling to know our own nature. If we know who we are – God can use that – He wants to use that knowledge to help ourselves and then others to grow.

Key Verse:

“Leave your simple ways and you will live; walk in the way of insight.” – Proverbs 9:6

I love this call. 1. Leave your simple ways – the ways of the world. 2. Walk in the ways of insight – fearing the Lord, knowing how to teach the next generation, and seeking out the Word to clothe yourself with wisdom and knowledge. In these passages, I find my character being refined and becoming equipped for how to deal with the world.

Vision of God

I see God as a loving father in these passages. He is sending off His children into a scary environment. But before that, a sit down conversation happens. “My child, you are going to see many things, BE AWARE! These things are not worth your heart. Please, I am telling you plainly – ‘Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.’ (Prov. 4:23) Kiddo, are you listening to me? ‘Take hold of my words with all your heart; keep my commands, and you will live.’ (Prov. 4:4)  I tell you all this, I want to prepare you because I love you SO much!” 

Go with God // Vision of Others

Honest reflection – everyday. This is not easy to do, especially today – celebrations are happening, cooking, cleaning, baking to prepare. But let us all take the time to put God ahead of “me” before I start my holiday. I know I don’t want to fall back into my simple ways! Let’s help each other as brothers and sisters who are having the same “dad sit-down” conversation today. 

Jesus

Jesus is the perfect example of how we should act as a child of God. He shows us how to live in the world without being from the world. He was by His father’s side – all the time. He did not let the world sway him. He combats the world with the Word.

Name – Kyle Perkins

7.3.2020

Proverbs 1-4

Summarize what you read in one paragraph:  

Proverbs 1 – The first chapter discusses the consequences of those who pursue evil desires and who refrain from acquiring wisdom. Wisdom is depicted as an individual, and at the end of the chapter, it is stated that those who ignore Wisdom’s advice will also be ignored and will fall to their own self-destruction.  

Proverbs 2 – Wisdom is found when an individual fears God. Those who follow wisdom will be blessed and be kept from the wickedness of sin. 

Proverbs 3 – The benefits of wisdom, and its value, is described in more detail. Wisdom is defined as treasure and a tool that God has used from the very beginning. Instructions are also given to help the reader use wisdom in everyday life. 

Proverbs 4 – This chapter begins by telling the reader to honor wisdom like honoring a woman. As a result, the reader will be protected by the ways of the wicked and find straight paths.  

What is one key verse?

‘Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the lord and shun evil.” – Proverbs 3:3-7 NIV

These verses remind me of how often I try to control everything going on in my life. I have to be fully surrendered to what God has in store for me, even if I do not understand why it may be happening. My own emotions or thoughts can sometimes feel like truth. However, those thoughts or emotions might not always align with God’s plan for my life. It is important that the decisions I make are parallel to what God wants, even if it does not seem right at the time. 

How does what you read change your vision of God?

From reading these chapters, I recognize that God only wants what is best for His children. God uses warning signs to protect His readers from what Satan and the world has to offer. God does not force us to obey him. He allows us to choose how we live our lives, but He clearly displays the positive and negative outcomes of our decisions. 

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

These chapters are a helpful reminder that our natural disposition is to rely on what we know or believe to be true. I think most of the verses seem like common sense, as it relates to how we should live our lives, but it is easier said than done. I have often seen how difficult it can be for myself and others to walk in such a way that fears God.  

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

The steps or decisions I make cannot come from what I believe to be true in my own heart. Proverbs 4:23 states we must guard our hearts “for it is the wellspring of life.” Our hearts and minds are exposed to so many different factors in this world. Sometimes what seems correct might actually be far from the truth, and vice versa. Therefore, my thoughts and feelings must find foundation first in some essential factors that God gives us. We must find insight from scripture, fasting, persistent prayer, and from the advice of other individuals who are also practicing the same. 

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

I think Proverbs 3:3-7 describes the life Jesus lived in the gospels. He was faithful in all circumstances, he won the favor of both man and God, and continually turned to God for insight. It was evident that Jesus knew scripture well and was always taking time to be alone so he could pray to the Father. If we want to acquire wisdom we must imitate Jesus’ example and follow the warnings Solomon provides us with. 

Jill Perez

7.2.2020

Psalm 146-150

There’s certainly no problem deriving the theme of these five Psalms because the word “praise” is found 40 times.  Ancient Jews knew these five Psalms as a group which they called the “praise collection”.  Authorship of these is not known with any certainty.  Psalm 147 definitely appears to have been penned after the return of the exiles to Jerusalem from Babylonian captivity.

Psalm 149:6

“May the praise of God be in their mouths and a double-edged sword in their hands

Today is my anniversary and my husband loves it when I compliment him and admire him expressively and with thoughtfulness and when he does the same for me.

I picked this verse because it is talking about praise.  But before praise this scripture uses the word ‘may’ which implies there is a wish or a hope that we would praise God.  Praise means as an action word to express warm approval or admiration of, to compliment.  It is not always an automatic thing for us to praise God and It is good to be reminded of this.  Sometimes our tendency is to jump right into the things we are praying for and we want to see God answer and we forget to notice and express the amazing attributes of God.

Vision of God

Praising God this way changes my vision of God because it helps me to see his need to connect with us.  That he wants to be thought of.  God does not want to be taken for granted and he really desires a great relationship with us, that is a 2 way street.

Vision of Others

This changes my vision of us because it helps me to see that if God wants to be praised then so do other people and that probably means I also need to be good at taking a compliment or praise from others.

Go with God

This will help me to slow down and take time to really appreciate and express that appreciation of God all the more.  After all, he deserves our praise because he is flat amazing!

Jesus

I see Jesus in these chapters because Jesus deserves our full praise and he is the Bible (or double-edged sword).  Jesus was the living word of God walking around in human form.

Phil Perez

7.1.2020

Psalm 140-145

These Psalms continue to help me reflect on God with the same vulnerability and faith that the psalmist model from thousands of years ago.  I get a boost from recognizing that God has been working in his spirit community throughout the ages and that others experience life’s struggles faithfully and are able to praise God continually.

Key Verse: Psalm 145:6-13

6  They shall speak of the might of your awesome deeds,

and I will declare your greatness.

7  They shall pour forth the fame of your abundant goodness

and shall sing aloud of your righteousness.

8  The LORD is gracious and merciful,

slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.

9  The LORD is good to all,

and his mercy is over all that he has made.

10  All your works shall give thanks to you, O LORD,

and all your saints shall bless you!

11  They shall speak of the glory of your kingdom

and tell of your power,

12  to make known to the children of man your mighty deeds,

and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.

13  Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom,

and your dominion endures throughout all generations.

This passage helps me have greater vision for the value of God’s kingdom.  I feel like I do value God’s kingdom as a great treasure in my life and this passage helps nurture that heart.

It helps me to go with God by proclaiming the praises of God with every opportunity that comes my way.

I see Jesus in this passage as the kingdom was the most common topic that Jesus spoke on and clearly he wanted to prepare the New Testament disciples to value and see with clear vision what God has done and can continue to do.

Hope this helps you to have greater vision in 2020

Beth Nagel

6.30.2020

Psalm 135-139

Summary

Psalm 135 is a song of boisterous praise for God.

Psalm 136 repeat the refrain, “for his steadfast love endures forever” after each verse.

Psalm 137 Is a brutal lament by the captives in Babylon who were cruelly asked to sing songs from their homeland for entertainment.

Psalm 138 Is a Psalm of thanks from David.

Psalm 139 is about being known by the Lord.

Key Verse:

Psalm 139:23-24 – “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!”

Vision of God

This verse and this Psalm is interesting because David begs God to know him fully and intimately. It speaks of God’s omnipresence (If I ascend to heaven, you are there!) and omniscience (How precious to me are your thoughts O God! How vast is the sum of them!) A lot of times I make God smaller and smaller in my mind where David uses this prayer to make God bigger.

Vision of Self and Others

David establishes that God knows all but then still offers what almost seems like a challenge to God that he would search him and look for anything that may be off in his heart. This is incredible humility and it makes me want to ask God and others what they see in me so I can grow closer to God and God’s vision for my life.

Go With God

I want to pray this prayer on the regular and seek more direction for my heart and character.

Jesus

David spends a few verses praising God for knowing him and loving him before he even existed. This reminds me that Jesus wasn’t plan B when God saw how sinful the world became. It was always God’s plan to love me and everyone through the cross of Christ – even before we existed!

Joel Nagel

6.29.2020

Psalm 128-134

Summary

The 15 Psalms that follow the longest Psalm in the bible are called the Songs of Ascents (see subheading under each Psalm). These were the songs that people would sing as they travelled with their families to Jerusalem for festivals like Passover or Tabernacles. I’m preaching about these Psalms on Sunday so I’m including a longer video for Saturday and Monday from my message (spoiler alert!) and a poster to help you pray through these Psalms and have a super epic prayer time.

Key Verses:

“O Lord, my heart is not lifted up; my eyes are not raised too high; I do not occupy myself with things too great and too marvelous for me. – Psalm 131:1

“Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! – Psalm 133:4

As your group of traveling worshippers got closer and closer to Jerusalem the focus of the last few song of ascents is on humility. It must have taken so much humility for Jerusalem to stay peaceful with all of these extra people from all over Israel and beyond. These songs were a great reminder to not think too highly of one’s self and to value unity.

Vision of God

When I think about the wisdom of God it makes me wonder if I’ve ever done anything “right”? And yet he loves me and even believes in me. I want to be less opinionated and be a better learner. When I’m thinking about what I think or saying what I think, I’m probably not learning!

Vision of Others

Psalm 133 goes on to describe unity as oil running down Aaron’s beard (a spiritual anointing) and dew on arid Mount Zion (spiritual refreshment). Humility and unity are so wonderful! But they come at a great price. They can’t be faked or forced. A lot of times we mistake shallow relationships for unity. True unity (refreshing and anointing!) means really listening, talking and praying through differences, seeking understanding and truly loving others.

Go with God

I want to build more relationships in my life based on true unity. I’m reading books to learn different points of view and having conversations where I’m doing less talking. But I’ve got a lot of work to do!

Jesus

Jesus was God – there was nothing too wonderful or marvelous for him to understand. yet, he chose to die for us so we could truly united to God. True unity takes sacrifice!