It’s Paige’s last lecture in the Elijah/Elisha series, and I (and others I’ve talked to) agree it is the best! She’s calling her last 3 teachings “wordel studies.” Faith, Grace, and this week: Sight. This is about a God who opens eyes, who helps us to really see: to see Him, to see the invisible armies, and to see people, not as trees walking, but as souls that may be open to the One True God.
Jesus told the Pharisees that they were:
We are to fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
One of the many names for God, which Martin Luther uses in “A Mighty Fortress,” is Lord Sabaoth – Lord over all armies, earthly and spiritual. That’s what Elisha wants us to see.
Near the end, Paige mentions the images from the James Webb telescope. Take a look:
https://webbtelescope.org/news/first-images/gallery
In her closing she read aloud from my favorite gift to give a new baby:
Paige often prays:
To see Thee more clearly, to love Thee more dearly, to follow Thee more nearly.
A very good song with which to begin, and which to pray with all our hearts.
What’s Next for Bloggers? 21 Days of Thanksgiving using Psalms 8, 42, and 104. We’ll stay on Thursdays until Advent. Hope you’ll join us next Thursday, November 10th.
Thursday: Introduction and Link to Paige
Starts at 9:36
1. Read 2 Kings 6:8-17 (Paige read out of ESV)
A. In verses 8-10, what helpful truth did Elisha have for the King of Israel?
B. In verse 11, what did the king of Syria think was happening?
C. In verse 12, what did his servant tell him about Elisha and his God?
D. What did the king of Syria do in verses 13-14?
E. What humor do you see in this passage?
F. What happens in verses 15-17?
2. Listen to Paige for the first ten minutes (She begins at 9:36. Stop at 19:36 when she begins the first point: The God Who Opens Eyes.)
A. What did Helen Keller say would be worse than being blind? What did she mean?
B. What did Jesus tell the Pharisees?
C. Paige quoted “some people are all about seeing and being seen.” That is usually used in a disparaging way about those who want to make an appearance somewhere (church, a cocktail party…) for their own selfish purposes but don’t want to really connect. But she turned it around to talk about what this lesson is really teaching. Explain.
D. She said we aren’t really sure which King of Syria, or which place — because that isn’t what this is all about. Elisha is the only properly named person. What does his name mean?
E. What others comments do you have about this opening? I found “he hears you in your bedroom” both funny and sobering.)
Friday: The Source of Sight
Listen to Paige from 19:36 to 26:20
1. The Syrian king assumes there is a spy and has to be told flat out that there is a prophet who hears and sees everything. It doesn’t matter where you are, God sees. What did Paige say is the Hebrew equivalent of “such and such a place.” What is her point?
2. How is the Syrian king going to solve the problem and why is this funny? (How did you like the blond joke?)
3. Review 2 Kings 6:17.
A. What does Elisha pray?
B. What is prayer an acknowledgment of?
C. How could you apply this throughout the day? Give specific examples.
4. Read 2 Kings 6:18-23
A. In verses 18-19, what does Elisha ask the Lord to do for the Syrians, and then where does he lead them?
B. What prayer does he pray in verse 20? How is the same prayer, yet a different purpose?
C. What does the king of Israel ask Elisha and what does Elisha tell him to do? (20-22)
D. How does this story end? (verse 23)
Saturday: The Sense of Sight
Listen to Paige from 26:20 to 39:20 after she talks about Saul being struck blind.
5. What was Tim Keller’s point in his illustration of a woman born blind asking what the color red was like?
6. Sight is not a skill but a sense. What happens when a person who is blind is healed and can see? How much does it change them? What is the parallel?” How is this like the difference between becoming religious and becoming a new creation?
7. In what ways do you have an entirely new sense of seeing? Be specific!!
8. How is the way our eyes see (upside down) but turned around by our brain, like what happens to a person who is born again?
9. This world sees upside down. Recently in reading Tim Keller’s new book on Forgiveness, I found out that forgiveness is now looked down upon by many in the world. (He mentioned Black Lives Matter and the Me Too movement.) What else does the world see upside down from God’s way of seeing things? How does this make us aliens?
10. How is faith a way of seeing right-side-up compared with the way the world does things? How is grace a way of seeing right-side-up compared to the way the world sees getting right with God?
11. How was the servant’s sight subverted before Elisha’s prayer? (verse 15)
12. How were the Syrians’ sight subverted before Elisha’s prayer?( verses 21) How is this story like Saul of Tarsus? What did both need to see?
13. What is the most common command in Scripture? Give some examples. (Paige did — you may have more.) Include the “for”
14. If you were to make a list: Things I need to see today — what might be on it?
God Hunt Sunday
15. How have you “seen” God at work in your life this week?
Monday: The Subversion of Sight
Listen to Paige from 39:20 – 52:45 when she says “The Second Thing I Want You To See”
16. Paige dug out her notes from a Covenant Seminary Chapel Lecture by Dr. Calhoun who taught on Jacob’s ladder while going through cancer.
A. What do you remember about this?
B. What is the miracle and main point of this story?
17. Describe what happened with her friend Sarah who was dying.
18. Why didn’t Elisha pray the same prayer for everyone?
19. Did you ever have a moment when you saw the depth of your sin like this?
20. What did she say is the message of Covid around the globe?
21. What do you learn about God from the way Elisha responds to the servant’s question in verse 21? How is this like the Philippian jailer?
22. Summarize what you learned about C. S. Lewis’ conversion.
23. Pray Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 1:18 for yourself and others. Do it here.
Tuesday: The God Who Sees
Listen to Paige from 52:45 to the end.
24. What is the point of every true Bible study? (Good test for a good study!)
25. What does God see? Just in the context of this study — what were some of the things God saw? Why is this important to you?
26. How does God’s sovereignty help you live in this fallen world? Give a specific example.
27. Whom God God see? Give examples from our study. What else stood out to you from this section and why?
28. How does the Westminister Children’s Catechism answer: Can you see God?
My favorite part – every story points to the gospel.
29. Beginning at the start of the 2nd hour, Paige shows the parallel with Jesus. Write down the parallels.
30. What is the New Testament parallel to 2 Kings 6:16?
31. What comments do you have from her story of telling the story from Read Aloud Bible Stories to her toddlers in the dark?
Wednesday:
32. Share at least two ways these studies have impacted your heart and life.
60 comments
I don’t see the link to Paige’s study
1. Read 2 Kings 6:8-17 (Paige read out of ESV)
A. In verses 8-10, what helpful truth did Elisha have for the King of Israel? That the King of Aram was waiting to attack him
B. In verse 11, what did the king of Syria think was happening? He thought that there was a traitor in his midst.
C. In verse 12, what did his servant tell him about Elisha and his God? That God tells the prophet things that the King says even in his bedroom.
D. What did the king of Syria do in verses 13-14? He sent soldiers to surround the city so that he could capture Elisha.
E. What humor do you see in this passage? The soldiers came by night as if to surprise Elisha with their presence, but God knows everything and can reveal it to Elisha.
F. What happens in verses 15-17? Elisha’s servant saw the army and was afraid. Elisha asked God to open the servant’s eyes and when He did the servant saw the vast army of God protecting them.
Hey Dawn-I’m sure Dee will get it added soon, but here it is: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dj_a9X6VBXg&t=885s
Oh Thank you, Lizzy!
Thursday: Introduction
1. Read 2 Kings 6:8-17 (Paige read out of ESV)
A. In verses 8-10, what helpful truth did Elisha have for the King of Israel? He would alert the king where the Syrian army would be camping
B. In verse 11, what did the king of Syria think was happening? There was a traitor among his own camp
C. In verse 12, what did his servant tell him about Elisha and his God? Elisha the prophet in Israel tells the king of Israel the words that you speak in Israel
D. What did the king of Syria do in verses 13-14? King found out Elisha was in Dothan and sent horses and chariots with a great army at night and surrounded the city of Dothan
E. What humor do you see in this passage? Elisha already knew what the king was doing so why did he think he could capture him if he didn’t want to be captured
F. What happens in verses 15-17? Elisha s servant got up and saw army surrounding city and was concerned and told Elisha Elisha responded to not be afraid because those who are with us are more than those who are with them Then Elisha prayed that the eyes of servan would be opened The servant then saw the mountains were full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha
2. Listen to Paige for the first ten minutes (She begins at 9:36. Stop at 19:36 when she begins the first point: The God Who Opens Eyes.)
A. What did Helen Keller say would be worse than being blind? What did she mean? To have sight with no vision To see but not have understanding of what we see To miss things because we aren’t looking for spiritual understanding
B. What did Jesus tell the Pharisees? They were hard hearted and self righteous ever seeing but not perceiving
C. Paige quoted “some people are all about seeing and being seen.” That is usually used in a disparaging way about those who want to make an appearance somewhere (church, a cocktail party…) for their own selfish purposes but don’t want to really connect. But she turned it around to talk about what this lesson is really teaching. Explain. That we develop vision to see the essential things
D. She said we aren’t really sure which King of Syria, or which place — because that isn’t what this is all about. Elisha is the only properly named person. What does his name mean? God is salvation
E. What others comments do you have about this opening? I found “he hears you in your bedroom” both funny and sobering.) the amazing fact that chariots of fire surrounded Elisha. Elisha saw a chariot of fire when Elijah went to heaven. How many are out there. When and where does God use them May God use them there and allow people to see them.
A. What did Helen Keller say would be worse than being blind? To have sight with no vision. What did she mean? To think that you see things, but you really have no understanding.
B. What did Jesus tell the Pharisees? You will be ever seeing, but never perceiving.
C. Paige quoted “some people are all about seeing and being seen.” That is usually used in a disparaging way about those who want to make an appearance somewhere (church, a cocktail party…) for their own selfish purposes but don’t want to really connect. But she turned it around to talk about what this lesson is really teaching. Explain. This passage is about God opening people’s eyes so that they can see Him.
D. She said we aren’t really sure which King of Syria, or which place — because that isn’t what this is all about. Elisha is the only properly named person. What does his name mean? God is salvation
E. What others comments do you have about this opening? (I found “he hears you in your bedroom” both funny and sobering.) The prophets are usually referred to as men who are standing alone, because they are going against the social norm or culture of their time. In fact, they aren’t ever alone at all.
1. Read 2 Kings 6:8-17 (Paige read out of ESV)
In verses 8-10, what helpful truth did Elisha have for the King of Israel?
He warned the king of Israel of the king of Arameans plans.
B. In verse 11, what did the king of Syria think was happening?
He thought someone in his army was a traitor and telling of his plans.
C. In verse 12, what did his servant tell him about Elisha and his God?
He told him that it was Elisha who told of the plans.
D. What did the king of Syria do in verses 13-14?
He sent the army to get Elisha.
E. What humor do you see in this passage?
That the king believes that he had any authority over Elisha and that Elisha wouldn’t know the king’s army was coming.
F. What happens in verses 15-17?
Elisha tells his servant to not be afraid. He prays that God allow him to see the army of God around them representing them.
1. Read 2 Kings 6:8-17 (Paige read out of ESV)
A. In verses 8-10, what helpful truth did Elisha have for the King of Israel?
Elisha warned the king of Israel of the Arameans coming.
B. In verse 11, what did the king of Syria think was happening?
There is a traitor in Aram’s camp.
C. In verse 12, what did his servant tell him about Elisha and his God?
The servant told the king that Elisha the prophet was telling the king of Israel, what the king of Syria was saying in his bedroom.
D. What did the king of Syria do in verses 13-14?
He sent a great army at night and surrounded the city.
E. What humor do you see in this passage?
Elisha is a prophet of God; if he knows what the king is saying in his bedroom, he surely know that the king is sending a great army! Elisha knows the true source of his own protection is God’s unseen army.
F. What happens in verses 15-17?
The servant of Elisha was worried when he saw the army surrounding them. Elisha knew the God’s unseen army would protect them. He prayed that the servant would have his eyes opened, so that he would see the heavenly forces protecting them.
2. Listen to Paige for the first ten minutes (She begins at 9:36. Stop at 19:36 when she begins the first point: The God Who Opens Eyes.)
A. What did Helen Keller say would be worse than being blind? What did she mean?
Helen Keller was speaking of perception~ Understanding and awareness~ the vision from the heart not the eyes.
B. What did Jesus tell the Pharisees?
“You will be ever seeking and never perceiving.”
C. Paige quoted “some people are all about seeing and being seen.” That is usually used in a disparaging way about those who want to make an appearance somewhere (church, a cocktail party…) for their own selfish purposes but don’t want to really connect. But she turned it around to talk about what this lesson is really teaching. Explain.
If you know the source for real sight is God, you will always seek out Him as your source of truth. Without Him “You will keep on hearing, but not understand; you will keep on seeing, but will not perceive; ” ( Isaiah quote fulfilled when Jesus speaks in Matt 13: 13-17 ) It’s the Heart!
D. She said we aren’t really sure which King of Syria, or which place — because that isn’t what this is all about. Elisha is the only properly named person. What does his name mean?
Elisha means: God is Salvation
E. What others comments do you have about this opening? I found “he hears you in your bedroom” both funny and sobering.)
God knows all ~ He knows our every thought, word, deed and action. That is why our love and commitment must start in our heart.
Thursday: Introduction and Link to Paige
1. Read 2 Kings 6:8-17 (Paige read out of ESV)
A. In verses 8-10, what helpful truth did Elisha have for the King of Israel?
He forewarned him of places that are unsafe for him with the king of Aram.
B. In verse 11, what did the king of Syria think was happening?
That there was a spy or a traitor within his company.
C. In verse 12, what did his servant tell him about Elisha and his God?
That Elisha and his God know even the words he speaks in his bedroom. We cannot hide from God.
D. What did the king of Syria do in verses 13-14?
Absurd. The Aramean king wanted to know where Elisha is and when he found out Elisha was in Dotham, he sent horses and chariots, and a strong force to capture Elisha.
E. What humor do you see in this passage?
God sees the king in his bedroom. LOL, An army vs. one man! Hah! A man with God is a majority. Praise the Lord! Oh, what a promise! We are NEVER alone!
F. What happens in verses 15-17?
When the servant of Elisha went out in the morning, he saw the army that surrounded the city. He was afraid. Elisha told him not to be afraid for those who are with them are more than those who are with the Aramean army.
Elisha then prayed for God to open his servant’s eyes to see.
2. Listen to Paige for the first ten minutes (She begins at 9:36. Stop at 19:36 when she begins the first point: The God Who Opens Eyes.)
A. What did Helen Keller say would be worse than being blind? What did she mean?
Being able to see but without vision. We see but do not truly comprehend or understand. I thought about the time we bought our car. We wanted a blue one, a specific style, and a model because we have not seen too many of this particular car. We bought it and guess what, it seems now that we see blue cars of the same make and style too many times, one of which was in our neighborhood! They were always there but we were not “seeing”.
B. What did Jesus tell the Pharisees?
Be ever seeing but not perceiving.
C. Paige quoted “some people are all about seeing and being seen.” That is usually used in a disparaging way about those who want to make an appearance somewhere (church, a cocktail party…) for their own selfish purposes but don’t want to really connect. But she turned it around to talk about what this lesson is really teaching. Explain.
I am not sure if I got this portion. There is so much that we do not know. But I believe we need spiritual sight to see and also to know that we are seen, and always, by God. Anywhere and anytime.
D. She said we aren’t really sure which King of Syria, or which place — because that isn’t what this is all about. Elisha is the only properly named person. What does his name mean?
Elisha means God is salvation.
E. What others comments do you have about this opening? I found “he hears you in your bedroom” both funny and sobering.)
“God is a fly on the wall in everybody’s bedroom”. Lol, I don’t know why I came up with this. So pardon my crazy sense of humor in words. On a more serious note, It is often easy to just look at people or circumstances at face value or assume something at that very moment. But there is more behind people or circumstances than what meets the eye.
One day this week, I was talking to my boss, and he commented on something that made me think that he must be a man who may not use words of affirmation with his employees. And I felt a little defensiveness inside of me not only for myself but for another employee who I thought had done the best he could given the circumstance. Then it came to me now, that even though it was only a thought, God saw me, and that other employee, and my employer. If He is sovereign over all things then, He is sovereign over that one day and situation. I thought of asking an audience with him to ask him what he meant by that comment. But I held off and am thankful. I believe God gave me an insight into that situation and he wants me to trust Him to bring about his good.
Love your enthusiasm, Bing:
God sees the king in his bedroom. LOL, An army vs. one man! Hah! A man with God is a majority. Praise the Lord! Oh, what a promise! We are NEVER alone!
I love this, Bing! “God is a fly on the wall in everybody’s bedroom”. Lol, I don’t know why I came up with this. So pardon my crazy sense of humor in words. On a more serious note, It is often easy to just look at people or circumstances at face value or assume something at that very moment. But there is more behind people or circumstances than what meets the eye.
1. The Syrian king assumes there is a spy and has to be told flat out that there is a prophet who hears and sees everything. It doesn’t matter where you are, God sees. What did Paige say is the Hebrew equivalent of “such and such a place.” What is her point? Yada yards yada it doesn’t matter when or where God always knows and sees it A Sovereign God knows everything
2. How is the Syrian king going to solve the problem and why is this funny? (How did you like the blond joke?)king was going to sends troops to get Elisha and sneak up on him at night Elisha already knew the kings movements and was telling king of Israel Cute
3. Review 2 Kings 6:17.
A. What does Elisha pray?O God open his eyes so he may see
B. What is prayer an acknowledgment of? Elisha knows his source Total dependence on God
C. How could you apply this throughout the day? Give specific examples. When I’m discouraged to declare my dependence on God. Remind myself to keep the problem in His hands and ask Him to open my eyes to where He is working
4. Read 2 Kings 6:18-23
A. In verses 18-19, what does Elisha ask the Lord to do for the Syrians, and then where does he lead them? Strike these people with blindness he led them to Samaria
B. What prayer does he pray in verse 20? How is the same prayer, yet a different purpose?Lord open the eyes of these men so they can see The servant s spiritual eyes were opened The army s eyes were opened to see the physical surroundings
C. What does the king of Israel ask Elisha and what does Elisha tell him to do? (20-22) Shall I kill then my father? Shall I kill them. Would you kill men that you have captured with your sword or bow. Set food and water before them so they may eat and return to their master
D. How does this story end? (verse 23) he set a great feast before them They ate and returned to their master and they stopped raiding Israel s territory
The song Day by Day takes me back to my childhood. Every time Paige would pray, up to this point, “see the more clearly, love you more dearly, etc.” I thought of this song. Thanks for posting it. Although my dad was a classical pianist, he didn’t appreciate the Christian “rock” of the day. Our youth leaders are the ones who helped us with the more modern Christian music.
2. Listen to Paige for the first ten minutes (She begins at 9:36. Stop at 19:36 when she begins the first point: The God Who Opens Eyes.)
A. What did Helen Keller say would be worse than being blind? What did she mean?
She said that seeing but not having vision would be worse than being blind.
I guess she was saying that it would be sad to see but not understand.
B. What did Jesus tell the Pharisees?
You will be ever seeing and never perceiving.
C. Paige quoted “some people are all about seeing and being seen.” That is usually used in a disparaging way about those who want to make an appearance somewhere (church, a cocktail party…) for their own selfish purposes but don’t want to really connect. But she turned it around to talk about what this lesson is really teaching. Explain.
This passage is about seen and being seen here. We don’t know names of the characters except Elisha. It’s written so that we will know about spiritual vision. What does it mean to see? God opens eyes. He is the source of sight. God knows and sees all things. The Syrian king cannot understand this because he is an idol worshiper. The Sovereign God knows everything! The king kind of believes this because he sends the army to “get” Elisha.
D. She said we aren’t really sure which King of Syria, or which place — because that isn’t what this is all about. Elisha is the only properly named person. What does his name mean?
God is salvation.
E. What others comments do you have about this opening? I found “he hears you in your bedroom” both funny and sobering.)
Paige is so funny! I appreciate her so much.
Elisha knows nothing and had nothing. He only prays. He is faithful. He prays for sight.
Did you ever watch Godspell?
I didn’t! But I knew all the music. I can’t wait to see this new one. It was that way with a lot of music for me. I knew ALL the Fiddler on the Roof songs but never saw the movie 🤷🏻♀️. I guess my dad would play those hahahaha!
That is funny. Have you seen the documentary on Fiddler on the Roof? It’s fascinating.
I’ll check it out!
Friday: The Source of Sight
Listen to Paige from 19:36 to 26:20
1. The Syrian king assumes there is a spy and has to be told flat out that there is a prophet who hears and sees everything. It doesn’t matter where you are, God sees. What did Paige say is the Hebrew equivalent of “such and such a place.” What is her point?
Yada, yada- it does not matter where or when-God always sees and knows everything. It is not a specific thing. You are dealing with a sovereign God who knows everything.
2. How is the Syrian king going to solve the problem and why is this funny? (How did you like the blond joke?)
He was going to sneak up on Elisha at night. He is going to surprise Elisha by sending his troops during the night. The blonde joke had me doubled over-that was so funny!
3. Review 2 Kings 6:17.
A. What does Elisha pray?
He prays for God to open his servant’s eyes.
B. What is prayer an acknowledgment of?
Prayer is an acknowledgment of our insufficiency, our inability, our dependence on God, and our confidence in Him at the same time.
C. How could you apply this throughout the day? Give specific examples.
One of the things that are challenging for me in terms of ministry to others is how to meet a need or if I am supposed to be the one to meet that need. There are times when I feel like I am always on the giving end and not receiving much. Open my eyes that I may see, to see you more clearly, love you more dearly, follow you more nearly Day by Day.
Then I see Jesus and remember He was always on the giving end, so I love Him more and follow his example. This is with the confidence that He is all I need (not the receiving from others) and that I can confidently move forward and be content.
This verse: Holy, holy is the Lord of heavenly armies! The earth is filled with his glory! Isaiah 6:3 A verse that became radioactive to me this morning. Since Jesus is the Lord of heavenly armies, anything that is going on on earth can be seen as being filled with His glory. His glory is the intention of all things on earth; even the hard, the trials, the seeming injustice-it will be reversed. This is something new to me. Shouldn’t there be peace in my heart knowing that God is in control and that His glory will be revealed in and through all things?
4. Read 2 Kings 6:18-23
A. In verses 18-19, what does Elisha ask the Lord to do for the Syrians, and then where does he lead them?
He asked the Lord to strike them with blindness and they were. He led them to Samaria.
B. What prayer does he pray in verse 20? How is the same prayer, yet a different purpose?
That God will open their eyes which He did. The servant’s eyes were open to the power of God and silence his fears and the Syrians’ eyes were opened to show them their defeat and their capture.
C. What does the king of Israel ask Elisha and what does Elisha tell him to do? (20-22)
The king of Israel asked them if he could them all. Elisha told him no but rather to offer them food and drink and to send them off back to their master.
D. How does this story end? (verse 23)
The bands from Aram stopped raiding Israel’s territory! God is in control!
1. The Syrian king assumes there is a spy and has to be told flat out that there is a prophet who hears and sees everything. It doesn’t matter where you are, God sees. What did Paige say is the Hebrew equivalent of “such and such a place.” What is her point? Yadda, yadda, yadda. It doesn’t matter what it is, God sees everything.
2. How is the Syrian king going to solve the problem and why is this funny? (How did you like the blond joke?) He’s going to send an army to surround the city in the dark of night. Darkness does not hide anything from God. The blond joke was funny and it did illustrate the silliness of the Syrian king’s plan.
3. Review 2 Kings 6:17.
A. What does Elisha pray? For spiritual sight
B. What is prayer an acknowledgment of? That it isn’t Elisha who has sight, but that God gives him sight in God’s timing.
C. How could you apply this throughout the day? Give specific examples. When things seem to be going downhill or I’m up against something insurmountable. I can remain calm, knowing that God is doing things that I can’t see and pray to Him in acknowledgement of that. That can be extremely helpful when I’m rushed for time and something gets in my way.
4. Read 2 Kings 6:18-23
A. In verses 18-19, what does Elisha ask the Lord to do for the Syrians, and then where does he lead them? He asks God to strike them blind. Then he leads them to Samaria.
B. What prayer does he pray in verse 20? How is the same prayer, yet a different purpose? He prays for their eyes to be opened. He prayed for his servant to have sight to see the spiritual realm. He prayed for the Aramean soldiers to have sight to see the physical.
C. What does the king of Israel ask Elisha and what does Elisha tell him to do? (20-22) The king asks if he should kill them, but Elisha tells him to feed them and send them back to their master.
D. How does this story end? (verse 23) The king goes beyond the bare minimum of bread and water and gives them a big feast. They never bothered the people of Israel again.
Love Dawn’s answer to C!
How could you apply this throughout the day? Give specific examples. When things seem to be going downhill or I’m up against something insurmountable. I can remain calm, knowing that God is doing things that I can’t see and pray to Him in acknowledgement of that. That can be extremely helpful when I’m rushed for time and something gets in my way.
The Syrian king assumes there is a spy and has to be told flat out that there is a prophet who hears and sees everything. It doesn’t matter where you are, God sees. What did Paige say is the Hebrew equivalent of “such and such a place.” What is her point?
Yada, yada, yada…it doesn’t matter when or where. God always knows.
2. How is the Syrian king going to solve the problem and why is this funny? (How did you like the blond joke?)
He is sending the army to find Elisha. Doesn’t he get that Elisha already knows he is coming?
Silly joke but I liked that it has to do with space 😉.
3. Review 2 Kings 6:17.
What does Elisha pray?
He prays that the young man sees the army around them.
B. What is prayer an acknowledgment of?
Faith. Total dependence.
C. How could you apply this throughout the day? Give specific examples.
Pray and know that He will provide. I had a rough morning with my family. I prayed. He gave me a new friend who gave me a different perspective.
4. Read 2 Kings 6:18-23
In verses 18-19, what does Elisha ask the Lord to do for the Syrians, and then where does he lead them?
He asks for them to be blind. He leads them to Samaria.
B. What prayer does he pray in verse 20? How is the same prayer, yet a different purpose?
He asks for God to make them see. It’s the opposite.
C. What does the king of Israel ask Elisha and what does Elisha tell him to do? (20-22)
The king wants to know if he should kill the prisoners. Elisha says no. He says to feed them and allow them to leave.
They feed the army, the army leaves and never returns.
God Hunt Sunday
15. How have you “seen” God at work in your life this week?
God has given me a deepening love for those who disagree with me and a more discerning spirit of what is around me. And since Paige talked about the brain (smile), I thought of the amygdala, a little part of the brain that helps us “hold the horses” when it comes to non-edifying speech. There were a few times this week that I wanted to say something blunt, but my spiritual amygdala said, “No, Bing; don’t say it”. I realize (see) this prompting can only come from the Spirit. God is at work in me!
And Dee, I am still ruminating over Saturday’s questions. Your questions are profound!
I missed that about the “amygdala!”
15. How have you “seen” God at work in your life this week? Being able to sense His encouragements in some disappointments this week.
1. Read 2 Kings 6:8-17 A. In verses 8-10, what helpful truth did Elisha have for the King of Israel?
He warned him not to pass the place where the Syrians were going to be.
B. In verse 11, what did the king of Syria think was happening?
He thought one among them was telling the King of Israel.
C. In verse 12, what did his servant tell him about Elisha and his God?
Elisha is a prophet in Israel who tells the king of Israel the words the king of Syria speaks.
D. What did the king of Syria do in verses 13-14?
He sent horses and chariots and a great army to seize Elisha.
E. What humor do you see in this passage?
The king of Syria thinks he can sneak up on Elisha who has proven to be a prophet.
F. What happens in verses 15-17?
Elisha woke up to the large army but told his men not to fear because God had given them a greater number.
2. Listen to Paige for the first ten minutes
A. What did Helen Keller say would be worse than being blind? What did she mean?
“to have sight with no vision”, meaning–to think that you see things, but you don’t really see them. To think that you see, but you lack understanding.
B. What did Jesus tell the Pharisees?
Jesus said that they would be ever-seeing and never perceiving.
C. Paige quoted “some people are all about seeing and being seen.” That is usually used in a disparaging way about those who want to make an appearance somewhere (church, a cocktail party…) for their own selfish purposes but don’t want to really connect. But she turned it around to talk about what this lesson is really teaching. Explain.
She said the passage is all about seeing and being seen, but not in a shallow way, rather in an absolutely essential way. While there is much we do not know about the timing, etc..we can learn about spiritual sight.
D. She said we aren’t really sure which King of Syria, or which place — because that isn’t what this is all about. Elisha is the only properly named person. What does his name mean?
God is salvation.
E. What others comments do you have about this opening? I found “he hears you in your bedroom” both funny and sobering.)
The sovereignty of God. There is no way to “sneak up upon” and the location doesn’t matter—”you are not dealing with a spy who knows some things, you are dealing with a sovereign God who knows everything”.
I love this Lizzy! So true!! The sovereignty of God. There is no way to “sneak up upon” and the location doesn’t matter—”you are not dealing with a spy who knows some things, you are dealing with a sovereign God who knows everything”.
1. The Syrian king assumes there is a spy and has to be told flat out that there is a prophet who hears and sees everything. It doesn’t matter where you are, God sees. What did Paige say is the Hebrew equivalent of “such and such a place.” What is her point?
“yada yada”—the place isn’t significant. It doesn’t matter where we are, we have a sovereign God who sees and knows everything.
2. How is the Syrian king going to solve the problem and why is this funny? (How did you like the blond joke?)
He thinks he can sneak up on God.
3. Review 2 Kings 6:17. A. What does Elisha pray?
“O Lord, please open his eyes that he may see.”
B. What is prayer an acknowledgment of?
God’s power of all things. God hears us when we pray.
C. How could you apply this throughout the day? Give specific examples.
Lord, open my eyes to see the ways I seek my own glory rather than Yours, the ways I want praise or recognition. Open my eyes to the ways I seek my own ways instead of Yours. Open my eyes to seek Your face alone, Your glory alone.
4. Read 2 Kings 6:18-23 A. In verses 18-19, what does Elisha ask the Lord to do for the Syrians, and then where does he lead them?
Elisha asked the Lord to strike them with blindness. God did as Elisha asked, and Elisha led them to Samaria.
B. What prayer does he pray in verse 20? How is the same prayer, yet a different purpose?
He asked the Lord to open their eyes that they may see.
C. What does the king of Israel ask Elisha and what does Elisha tell him to do? (20-22)
He asks Elisha if he should strike them down. He tells him not to strike them down but to set bread and water before them, that they may eat and drink and go to their master.
D. How does this story end? (verse 23)
The King of Israel gave them a great feast and then sent them to their master. The Syrians did not come again on raids into the land of Israel.
Listen to Paige from 26:20 to 39:20 after she talks about Saul being struck blind.
5. What was Tim Keller’s point in his illustration of a woman born blind asking what the color red was like? It would be impossible for the blind woman to explain the color red by comparing it to another sense. Sight is not an extension of touch, hearing or any other sense.
6. Sight is not a skill but a sense. What happens when a person who is blind is healed and can see? Their whole world is opened up, they have freedom. How much does it change them? It changes them entirely, they no longer need the “props” they one did.What is the parallel?” How is this like the difference between becoming religious and becoming a new creation? In my own experience of being “religious” and then becoming a new creation. I was spiritually blind, I could not understand Scripture or feel that prayer had any importance. Then when I surrendered to God and became a new creation in Christ Jesus, it was as if my mind had been turning in one direction my whole life and Jesus reversed the direction my mind turned…I could truly see!
7. In what ways do you have anentirely new sense of seeing? Be specific!! I can read Scripture with the help and inspiration of the Holy Spirit, I can pray with greater faith and trust, I can speak with confidence and understanding.
8. How is the way our eyes see (upside down) but turned around by our brain, like what happens to a person who is born again? What a perfect illustration!
9. This world sees upside down. Recently in reading Tim Keller’s new book on Forgiveness, I found out that forgiveness is now looked down upon by many in the world. (He mentioned Black Lives Matter and the Me Too movement.) What else does the world see upside down from God’s way of seeing things? The way the world sees the sanctity of life. No value. How does this make us aliens? We have an eternal view through the lens of Scripture, unlike those who see life through their flesh.
10. How is faith a way of seeing right-side-up compared with the way the world does things? “There is a way that seems right to man, but the end thereof is death.” How is grace a way of seeing right-side-up compared to the way the world sees getting right with God? We can’t earn Grace, but we must accept God’s forgiveness and respond with repentance. The world wants to achieve forgiveness by works, just like Hollywood has always portrayed it.
11. How was the servant’s sight subverted before Elisha’s prayer? (verse 15) He only saw the enemies army with horses and chariots.
12. How were the Syrians’ sight subverted before Elisha’s prayer?( verses 21) How is this story like Saul of Tarsus? He had to be blind in order to see God’s power and purpose. What did both need to see? God’s power and purpose.
13. What is the most common command in Scripture? “Do not be afraid…”Give some examples. (Paige did — you may have more.) Include the “for” “Do not be afraid, for I bring glad tidings if great joy!”Luke 2:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you,do not be dismayed, for I am your God.” Isaiah 41:10
14. If you were to make a list: Things I need to see today — what might be on it? To see Jesus in the faces of my brothers and sisters in Christ. (I have been attending a church in my new hometown for nearly 18 months, people are still standoffish to me and my son.)
I need to see the direction that God wants me to go in.
I need to see myself in the same way that God does, and the way He sees others.
Oh Lord, please work in the hearts of Your children in Lydia’s church and help them to really see her and her son!
Thank-you Dee! Prayers are an amazing gift!🙏❤️🙏
This is so so true! Love how you stated this, Lydia. How does this make us aliens? We have an eternal view through the lens of Scripture, unlike those who see life through their flesh.
I join Dee in praying for those in your church to have renewed sight and open their hearts to you and your son.
Thank-you so much Patti! I feel encouraged by you and Dee.🙏❤️🙏
Lydia, praying tonight that this church will really see you and your son. Is this a big church? Just curious. Prompt someone from this church, Lord, to reach out to Lydia and her son. And from one, (oh how one is enough to create a chain of good tidings to another!), may there be more!
Thank-you Bing. It is a small country church ( 100- 200) people. We moved from California to a small town in West Virginia. These people have known each other their whole lives, we are outsiders. We got involved in music ministry right away, the praise team are friendly. I need to reach out more too.🙏
It does seem the new person has to do the reaching out, though not right!
Amen, Bing. I am praying this very prayer with you! Thankful the praise team is friendly.
16. Paige dug out her notes from a Covenant Seminary Chapel Lecture by Dr. Calhoun who taught on Jacob’s ladder while going through cancer.. What do you remember about this? Bethel means the very door of heaven Jacob was absolutely safe. He was held in the hollow of God s hand and nothing could touch him without God s permission Opening of our eyes is the silencing of our fears always
B. What is the miracle and main point of this story?He sees his true condition. Jacob was absolutely safe. Jacob had comfort in the facts not in spite of them
17. Describe what happened with her friend Sarah who was dying.Friend would wake up in fear then her eyes would get wide and she would point Paige asked believer nurse if she had any idea what Sarah was looking at and nurse replied I don’t think it’s a what it’s a who I think she is seeing Him who we do not yet see.
18. Why didn’t Elisha pray the same prayer for everyone? Servant needed to see they were not alone Soldiers needed to see their defeat. All needed to see God is in control Soldiers needed to be made blind because they thought they could see If God had opened eyes of soldiers in Dothan to see chariots of fire they would have seen the power but not the grace
19. Did you ever have a moment when you saw the depth of your sin like this? I think there are times I think about the weight of my sin that Christ carried to the cross but I’m not getting the depth and how filthy my sin is
20. What did she say is the message of Covid around the globe? We are in control of nothing
21. What do you learn about God from the way Elisha responds to the servant’s question in verse 21? How is this like the Philippian jailer? His kindness despite our wickedness He wants none to perish. When discovering the prison doors were open he was going to kilo himself but Pauln said don’t we are here so instead of being killed like soldiers could have been he gets salvation and is baptized
22 Summarize what you learned about CS Lewis conversion He didn’t want God but he finally gave in and dejectedly converted He came to realize the Divine Humility that would accept him on those terms a prodigal who came kicking and screaming Hardness of God is softer than the kindness of men his compulsion is our liberation
PrayPauls prayer from Ephesians here I pray that the eyes of our heart will be enlightened in order that we may know the hope to which You have called us, the riches of the glorious inheritance of the saints, and Your incomparably great power for those who believe That power is like the working of your mighty strength when You exerted in Christ when You raised Christ from the grave and seated Him in the heavenly realms far above rule and authority power and dominion and every title that can be given in this age and the age to come
It’s been so good to have you here, Judy. We lost so many when I chose to do Paige, though I think she is so good — it was encouraging to have a newcomer!
Thank you. It was a very good study. You selected a good Bible teacher. I’m starting to get how this works. Yesterday listened to parts a third time and heard more insight.
I have loved this study, Dee. So thankful you chose to do it.
Thank you. You are a special group of ladies and I like that you help me see things I would miss
I have really enjoyed being taught by Paige, she is an amazing, gifted teacher! I have also grown in wisdom from your questions and comments Dee and the response of all of those that take the time to share. Thank-you so much!❤️🙏❤️
I have really enjoyed your insights, Judy. So happy you joined the study.
4D. How does this story end? (verse 23)
They feed the army, the army leaves and never returns.
5. What was Tim Keller’s point in his illustration of a woman born blind asking what the color red was like?
Nothing can be compared to red with respect to food or sound (“…is red like pizza or a violin?”). You don’t have to be taught sight. It is given to us by the creator. He is the source of the gift of sight. You either see or you don’t.
6. Sight is not a skill but a sense. What happens when a person who is blind is healed and can see?
They are overwhelmed.
How much does it change them?
They are exposed to new realities. It revolutionizes them. They are changed entirely.
What is the parallel?”
When we become Christians we are revolutionized. We take off our old selves and put on new ways. We are made alive in Christ. “I was blind but now I see!”
How is this like the difference between becoming religious and becoming a new creation?
More peace, more love, more good relationships, etc. if we are religious we try harder. We read our Bible more, pray more, go to more church, etc.
Christianity is not that!
7. In what ways do you have an entirely new sense of seeing? Be specific!!
Hmmmm…I think when I finally understood that Jesus loves me no matter what, my eyes were opened wide.
8. How is the way our eyes see (upside down) but turned around by our brain, like what happens to a person who is born again?
I love the science she included here 😉. We see all reality upside down because we are only concerned with ourselves. We live in a fallen world. God gives us sight when our eyes focus on others instead of ourselves. The work of God (salvation) is required for us to see right side up. A person born again sees right side up.
9. This world sees upside down. Recently in reading Tim Keller’s new book on Forgiveness, I found out that forgiveness is now looked down upon by many in the world. (He mentioned Black Lives Matter and the Me Too movement.) What else does the world see upside down from God’s way of seeing things? How does this make us aliens?
Retaliation instead of turning the other cheek. We go against the grain. We are not “normal.”
10. How is faith a way of seeing right-side-up compared with the way the world does things?
Faith is our guidepost. The world needs the proof up front. It doesn’t live on faith. Living in faith shows respect and trust, for and in, our King.
How is grace a way of seeing right-side-up compared to the way the world sees getting right with God?
We accept His grace on us. No conditions. It is what we receive because of Jesus. The world believes something must be done to receive grace.
11. How was the servant’s sight subverted before Elisha’s prayer? (verse 15)
The servant saw there was no way to win. He is overcome by his natural eyes. He could not see any hope.
12. How were the Syrians’ sight subverted before Elisha’s prayer?( verses 21)
They were unable to see they were in Samaria until Elisha prayed.
How is this story like Saul of Tarsus?
Saul was blinded on the road. He needed to know that he was blind. It takes him 3 days to see.
What did both need to see?
They needed to know the scope of their blindness.
13. What is the most common command in Scripture? Give some examples. (Paige did — you may have more.) Include the “for”
Do not fear!
“For I hold you by your right hand— I, the Lord your God. And I say to you, ‘Don’t be afraid. I am here to help you.”
Isaiah 41:13 NLT
14. If you were to make a list: Things I need to see today — what might be on it?
See the fruits of the spirit in my life.
From Laura: I think when I finally understood that Jesus loves me no matter what, my eyes were opened wide.
This study made me think of this old hymn:
https://youtu.be/uFjo6E6KU4c
This is lovely, Laura! Thank you for sharing.
24. What is the point of every true Bible study? (Good test for a good study!)
What do I learn about God
25. What does God see? Just in the context of this study — what were some of the things God saw? Why is this important to you? everything International treaties altars to Baal, empty oil jars,leper our skin of enemy commander, stolen vineyard, poisonous stew, lost axheads, bitter water, God sees me and knows everything about me and will guide me through everything
26. How does God’s sovereignty help you live in this fallen world? Give a specific example. I find the political situations like Ukraine, North Korea and the unrest in USA upsetting God sees everything and God is in control I don’t have to understand because I can trust Him
27. Whom God God see? Give examples from our study. What else stood out to you from this section and why? Everyone the starving widow and son, the woman whose son died, the stolen vineyard, the lost axhead, the little slave girl. Nothing is too small for God to see God s tenderness for people and the lengths He goes to save us from danger and ourselves Lord open my spiritual eyes
28. How does the Westminister Children’s Catechism answer: Can you see God? No I can’t see God but He always sees me
My favorite part – every story points to the gospel.
29. Beginning at the start of the 2nd hour, Paige shows the parallel with Jesus. Write down the parallels.
A group of soldiers came in night for 1 lone man This lone man saves us all Not just the group of soldiers
30. What is the New Testament parallel to 2 Kings 6:16? 1 John 4:4 He that is in you is greater than he who is in the world
31. What comments do you have from her story of telling the story from Read Aloud Bible Stories to her toddlers in the dark? I love how they were taught with excitement the great stories in the Bible
Listen to Paige from 52:45 to the end.
24. What is the point of every true Bible study? (Good test for a good study!)
What do I learn about God? Learning more about God.
25. What does God see? Just in the context of this study — what were some of the things God saw? Why is this important to you?
International treaties, altar to Baal, empty oil jars, leper’s skin of the enemy commander, stolen vineyards, poisonous stew, movement of armies, lost ax heads, bitter water bedroom of the Syrian king.
26. How does God’s sovereignty help you live in this fallen world? Give a specific example.
I know that God is seeing everything public and personal in my life. Nothing happens and nothing is said that He does not see. There is nothing too small or too big for Him. He is sovereign over all of it.
27. Whom does God see? Give examples from our study. What else stood out to you from this section and why?
God sees the widow in Shunem and her starving son, a man on Ahab’s staff who has taken his life into his own hands, a hundred prophets hiding in a cave, a man plowing in the field, He see the little slave girl in Naaman’s house, He sees a king of Syria and his mighty forces. God has plans and purposes for all of these people. God sees us all. We are never alone. He is aware of everything that happens to me and of all that I think and do. I loved this: His loving eyes comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable.
24. What is the point of every true Bible study? (Good test for a good study!) What do I learn about God?
25. What does God see? Just in the context of this study — what were some of the things God saw? Why is this important to you? International treaties, alters of baal, empty oil jars, the leperous skin of an enemy commander, stolen vineyards, poisonous stew, the movement of armies, lost axe heads, bitter water, the flight of ravens, the bedroom of a Syrian King.
This is important to me because it is proof that He sees me and every detail of my life!
26. How does God’s sovereignty help you live in this fallen world? Give a specific example. Today is election day, the outcome is in God’s Hands…not mine. I can rest with confidence in His will.
27. Whom God God see? Give examples from our study. What else stood out to you from this section and why? Everyone. He saw the widow and her son, Elijah sleeping under the tree, Naboth, Elisha plowing in the field.
God ministering to Elijah with the ravens and Elijah receiving their care eventhough they are unclean birds in the Jewish religion. How will I respond when God sends me ravens?
28. How does the Westminister Children’s Catechism answer: Can you see God? “No, but He always sees me.”
My favorite part – every story points to the gospel.
29. Beginning at the start of the 2nd hour, Paige shows the parallel with Jesus. Write down the parallels. Jesus could have called 72,000 angels in chariots to rescue Him, but He did not because He came to do the Father’s Will…the Father’s Will was the cross. That was the only way He could capture us! In that moment on the cross when Jesus bore my sins, God had to look away…so one day He could look on me.
30. What is the New Testament parallel to 2 Kings 6:16?31. “Greater is He that is in me, than He that is in the world.” What comments do you have from her story of telling the story from Read Aloud Bible Stories to her toddlers in the dark? What a precious memory for her and her children…God must have been filled with joy when He looked on them! It brings back memories of reading to my children at bedtime. The last book I read to my son when he was 10 years old was “Little Pilgrims Progress” we still talk about it.
I’ll have to check out Little Pilgrim’s Progress!
I still have the copy my Mom read to me! It is written by Helen L. Taylor, printed by Moody Press, Chicago.
It’s a great adventure!
Tuesday: The God Who Sees
Listen to Paige from 52:45 to the end.
24. What is the point of every true Bible study? (Good test for a good study!)
Every true Bible study should reveal to us the God who sees us.
25. What does God see? Just in the context of this study — what were some of the things God saw? Why is this important to you?
He sees international treaties, empty oil jars, leprous skin, poisonous stew, flight of ravens, and the bedroom of the Syrian king. There is nothing too big nor too small that God cannot see them.
26. How does God’s sovereignty help you live in this fallen world? Give a specific example.
God has purposes for those whom He sees. Since we just voted today, I was reminded of this verse: The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, Like the [rivers of water;He turns it wherever He wishes. Proverbs 21:1 God has allowed leaders to be in certain positions and I can trust Him to bring out his purposes through them. And I also need to pray for them: I Timothy 2:2 I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.
27. Whom does God see? Give examples from our study. What else stood out to you from this section and why?
The widow and the starving, 100 prophets, His own dear spokesman, Elijah, Elisha plowing, Naboth, kings of Judah and Moab and Israel, idolatry, the prophet’s widow, the woman from Shunem, slave girl, a man who borrowed an ax, king of Syria.
We are never alone-hard or great circumstances-we don’t need to get God’s attention. He sees us.
28. How does the Westminster Children’s Catechism answer: Can you see God?
Yes, nothing is hidden from God. Can you see God? but He always sees me. He sees us all the time. We are seen therefore we see.
My favorite part – every story points to the gospel.
29. Beginning at the start of the 2nd hour, Paige shows the parallel with Jesus. Write down the parallels.
In the garden one man, Jesus was sought out by an army at night. His friends did not “see” the purpose of it all and responded in ways denoting fear. Peter responded with the sword. Jesus did not. Elisha did not. Elisha went to the true source of sight and so did Jesus.
This song: He could have called ten thousand angels https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mP563vwmQB0&t=60s
30. What is the New Testament parallel to 2 Kings 6:16?
31. What comments do you have from her story of telling the story from Read Aloud Bible Stories to her toddlers in the dark?
Every story point to Jesus. The gift of sight is given to us so that we would see Jesus.
16. Paige dug out her notes from a Covenant Seminary Chapel Lecture by Dr. Calhoun who taught on Jacob’s ladder while going through cancer.
A. What do you remember about this?
A man sees a ladder coming down from heaven. He sees angels going up and down and a doorway where God stands.
B. What is the miracle and main point of this story?
He is allowed to see what is available at all times. We are never alone.
17. Describe what happened with her friend Sarah who was dying.
When Sarah would “wake,” she would stare ahead and point. Paige asked a nurse what she was looking at. The nurse said it’s not a what, but rather a who. They believed she was looking at Jesus.
18. Why didn’t Elisha pray the same prayer for everyone?
Each group needed to see what they needed to see. The servant had to see the strength of God. The army needed to see God. They were total helpless and needy.
19. Did you ever have a moment when you saw the depth of your sin like this?
Probably?
20. What did she say is the message of Covid around the globe?
We are not in control.
21. What do you learn about God from the way Elisha responds to the servant’s question in verse 21? How is this like the Philippian jailer?
He is a forgiving God. He wants to give us a second chance.
The Phillipian jailer is going to kill himself because he wakes to find the jail cells all open. He believes the imprisoned are all gone. They are not. Paul tells him not to kill himself, that they are all there. He is baptized instead of dead!!
22. Summarize what you learned about C. S. Lewis’ conversion.
He is kicking and screaming coming to the Lord. He succumbed to theHim. He was the most dejected convert ever in his eyes.
24. What is the point of every true Bible study? (Good test for a good study!)
To tell us about God.
25. What does God see? Just in the context of this study — what were some of the things God saw? Why is this important to you?
All things. Everything. The lepers skin, stolen vineyards, the bedroom of the Syrian king. He is sovereign over all of it. He knows everything about us. He uses our circumstances for His purposes. We are never alone.
26. How does God’s sovereignty help you live in this fallen world? Give a specific example.
Well, not gonna lie. It’s hard sometimes, especially tonight. I’m very sad for the state of our country. I have lost 40k this year on my retirement money. I know He is in charge but it seems that evil prevails. Did you know that the US government passed a bill in 2020 that changed the 7th grade health standards (which our state adopted)? In it was defined how homosexuals have sex. Our 12 year olds are now being taught that anal and oral sex are “normal.” My friends, who were not aware that their children were learning this content are mortified. In our state, you are allowed to ask for an alternative assignment if you don’t want your children exposed to this material. The school did not send an opt out (it should be 2 weeks prior). I am so sad for my friends and their children. So is He sovereign? Yes. Do I trust Him, yes. But, I am disappointed in the people who are in charge and helping me lose my hard earned money and taking the innocence away from our 12 year olds.
27. Whom God God see? Give examples from our study. What else stood out to you from this section and why?
“We are seen and therefore we see.” We’re always told that we can’t look upon Him because it would be too much for our eyes. His eyes are way too pure for looking at us so why can He see us? Because of Jesus. A group of soldiers came at night for a man, just like in this story. Peter tried to cut off the soldiers ear but Jesus wouldn’t allow it, just like in this story where the king wanted to kill the soldiers. Jesus came to do the Father’s will so He could get us. He had to be forsaken by the Father. At that moment He could not see Jesus. He had to look away so that now forever He could see me.
28. How does the Westminister Children’s Catechism answer: Can you see God?
No, but He always sees me.
Oh, Laura. Thank you once again for opening your heart. The things happening in our country and our states are so disappointing. (Our state is much like yours) Sometimes it is hard to breathe. So many are so distracted with their own “stuff” that they are not seeing what is happening before our eyes. The morals of our communities are falling so far from God. It is so very hard, as Christians, to have it in our faces constantly. Yet, God knows it! God sees it! He is Sovereign! How I pray for revival! This study has so demonstrated that in all of these stories. We do see His judgment on those who lose sight of His sovereignty. This has brought me to my knees in prayer so many times this past year. Let us all continue to pray to see Him and hear Him and pray for His will in our country.
Yes, I join you in prayer.
Laura, what you said about 7th-grade health standards changes is very alarming. And you losing money for your retirement? Yes, indeed-our country is in a sad state. We both know God is sovereign over all these things but the pain and grief are very real. Yes to prayer.
“You have been our shelter, Lord to every generation. A sanctuary from the storm, to every generation, Lord. ” Psalm 90
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IoHHsQg8pYY&t=22s
. Share at least two ways these studies have impacted your heart and life. To be careful not to inwardly pat myself on back when it’s God whose done it. My heart swells for God and Jesus with the points Paige made about God and Jesus in this study. God has accepted Christ s sacrifice so we are not destroyed. Elijah was standing on the Rock ( Jesus 1 Cor 10:4) God is the miracle in these stories and all He has done for us. The grace God extends to us if we make the slightest move towards Him. The lengths God goes to save just one person. God opens our eyes so we can see Jesus. Jesus spanned the gap for me taking on what my eyes have seen, my mouth has said and what my hands grasped and exchanged my sin for what Jesus saw and said and given me salvation through what His hands and feet accomplished God sees us and everything that goes on in our lives (If God is for us, who then can stand against us ) This is only part of who our God is. See what great love the Father has lavished on us that we should be called children of God
Wednesday:
32. Share at least two ways these studies have impacted your heart and life.
I have not given much attention to the story of Elijah and Elisha before. These studies have given me a deeper dive into their stories. It has also made me more aware of the omniscience of God, that He is all-knowing, all-seeing, and ever so all-watchful. From the king to the slave girl, from the rich man (Ahab) or rich woman (Shunnamite) to the regular guy (Naboth), and to the least, a widow, a simple worker, and to His very own called-out people (Elijah and Elisha) He is all of these to all of them.
He sees everything about and of me and He has His purposes for my life and nothing or no one can thwart these purposes. When I am discouraged, I need to remember E and E and add my E (Ernema) to the list of people whom God sees while He opens eyes to see what we need to see. Every story points us to see Jesus.
Thank you, Dee! I see this blog as one of the most important places for my spiritual growth. All glory to God!
32. Share at least two ways these studies have impacted your heart and life.
The most important impact has been my perception of God. Just like Bing said, the sories of Elijah and Elisha show us that God sees us each and the struggles we are experiencing. Because I know He is interested in me and my life, it makes me feel closer to Him. Another important fact is, He wants to heal me, He wants me to understand Him and allow Him to help me see His presence in the details of each day. I feel significant! I Praise His Holy Name! HE is the God who sees.