Reflections

Our Final Episode

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 07:00:00 +0000

In this special final episode, the team shares why the podcast portion of Reflections Bible Study is wrapping up and how you can continue to participate in our journey through the Bible the rest of this year.

To receive our written Reflections Bible Studies for the rest of this year in your inbox, subscribe at bibleproject.com/study.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes
Bible Reading: Michelle Jones
Review Reading: Matthew Halbert-Howen & Cooper Peltz
Production: Dan Gummel & Zach Mckinley
Theme music: Grant William Harold

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Looking Back to Look Forward

admin@bibleproject.com (Cheree Hayes, Carissa Quinn) — Wed, 11 Aug 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Is the book of Chronicles just a rerun of stories we’ve already been told? How does it help us understand where the story of the Bible leads?

In English Bibles, the books of 1-2 Chronicles follow Samuel and Kings, but in the ancient Hebrew ordering of the Scriptures, Chronicles is the final book of the Old Testament. So what is the significance of this? The book of Chronicles ends with a decree to build a temple. This is the same decree that is told in the book of Ezra-Nehemiah. But Ezra and Nehemiah have already built the temple. So the fact that the whole Hebrew Bible ends on this note tells us that there must be another return from exile, another temple that will be built up and a better leader to come—a Messiah who will lead the people back to communion with God. The Hebrew Bible ends in anticipation for all that’s to come.

Let’s reflect more on this.

Bible Reading

2 Chronicles 36:22-23

Reflection Questions

1. The temple is the place of communion where God and humanity, Heaven and Earth, all come together in unity. Reflect on how Jesus the Messiah leads his people into this place of unity. What comes to mind?

2. What kind of exile do people return from in order to experience unity with God today?

3. How have you experienced unity with God and others, and how are you still waiting with anticipation?

Want to Go Deeper?

Check out this episode's Bible study to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion. Go to bibleproject.com/study.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Carissa Quinn
Pre-Production: Zach McKinley
Production: Cooper Peltz
Production and Bible Reading: Dan Gummel
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: IamDayLight, Blue

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Treasured by God

admin@bibleproject.com (Cheree Hayes, Tim Mackie) — Wed, 4 Aug 2021 07:00:00 +0000

After Israel returned from exile, many of the people were just as selfish and unjust as before. But there was a remnant of Israel who trusted and honored Yahweh. God called them his treasure and reminded them to hold on to his words of promise. We too can join this faithful remnant. When we feel overwhelmed by the state of our world, we can stand alongside generations of those who patiently trusted God. He assures us that he will bring justice and set all things right. He will keep his word. So as we continue to wait, we can also hold onto hope.

Bible Reading

Malachi 3:16-4:6

Reflection Questions

1. What is one thing you are patiently trusting God to make right?

2. God said that those who trust and follow him are his treasured possession. What comes to mind as you reflect on what it means to be treasured?

3. What would it practically look like for you to treasure God’s promises today?

Want to Go Deeper?

Check out this episode's Bible study to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion. Go to bibleproject.com/study.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Tim Mackie
Bible Reading: Michelle Jones
Production: Cooper Peltz, Dan Gummel, and Zach McKinley
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: Ian Post, To Edinburgh

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There’s Hope in the Nightmare

admin@bibleproject.com (Carissa Quinn, Cheree Hayes) — Wed, 28 Jul 2021 07:00:00 +0000

The book of Daniel explores what it means to be God’s people while living in a culture that is set against his values. How do God’s people remain faithful and confident in a situation like this? The strange dream in Daniel chapter 7 gives us some insight. In it we see there’s a kingdom ruled by the “Son of Man,” the one with all “authority, glory and sovereign power.” The oppressive rulers of this world will fail, but the Son of Man’s rule will never end. So when arrogant kings rise up, the people of God can look to a more powerful King. His name is Jesus, and all his followers are invited to live in the humble values of his Kingdom now, even while living amidst the kingdoms of Earth. Let’s reflect more on this

Bible Reading

Daniel 7:9-14

Reflection Questions

1. How can the arrogant beasts in Daniel’s vision help you notice oppression in the culture around you?

2. How do you imagine the Kingdom of Jesus bringing hope to the oppression in your culture?

3. How can the Son of Man in Daniel’s vision inspire you to stand up to the oppression around you?

Want to Go Deeper?

Check out this episode's Bible study to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion. Go to bibleproject.com/study.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Carissa Quinn
Production: Cooper Peltz
Production and Bible Reading: Dan Gummel
Pre-Production: Zach McKinley
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: Kyle Preston, Twilight

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Who Does God Choose to Work Through?

admin@bibleproject.com (Tim Mackie, Cheree Hayes) — Wed, 21 Jul 2021 07:00:00 +0000

What kind of person does God choose to work through most often?

Can he work through me too?

The book of Esther is a classic expression of the biblical idea that God opposes the proud and gives grace to the humble. And God is still in the habit of elevating those who society has deemed unimportant. It might not always look as heroic as Esther’s story, but God can use anybody as an instrument for his purposes. If we want to partner with God, we don’t have to be rich, important, or powerful. We simply need to trust him over everything else.

Bible Reading

Esther 4:1-6, 12-17

Reflection Questions

1. God opposes the proud, but he gives grace to the humble. What are some other stories in the Bible where we see this truth?

2. With those stories in mind, what does it practically mean to be humble? How is it a mindset as well as an action?

3. What is one courageous step, small or big, that you could take today to trust God and humbly serve your community?

Want to Go Deeper?

Check out this episode's Bible study to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion. Go to bibleproject.com/study.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Tim Mackie
Bible Reading: Michelle Jones
Production: Cooper Peltz, Dan Gummel, and Zach McKinley
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: A Certain Distance, Sean Williams

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Is God Inclusive?

admin@bibleproject.com (Carissa Quinn, Cheree Hayes) — Wed, 14 Jul 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Yahweh warned Israel not to tie themselves to foreign gods through marriage. But when those same foreigners left their gods to honor him, Yahweh welcomed them with open arms. Yahweh’s people were not as welcoming. Ezra and Nehemiah loved God, but they were misguided to exclude foreigners from joining God’s people. Since Ezra and Nehemiah weren’t exactly models for godliness and reform, what can we learn from their stories? How can we welcome others in the family of God who are different from us?

Bible Reading

Isaiah 56:3,6-8 in contrast to Ezra 4:1-3

Reflection Questions

What are some behaviors that might show another follower of Jesus that they belong in the family of God?
What are some behaviors that could exclude or alienate another follower of Jesus from your community?
What is one small step you can take today to encourage someone else’s sense of belonging?

Want to Go Deeper?

Check out this episode's Bible study guide to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion. Go to bibleproject.com/study.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Carissa Quinn
Production: Dan Gummel and Zach Mckinley
Bible Reading: Dan Gummel
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: "Reflections" by Pete James Johnson

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Promise for New Hearts

admin@bibleproject.com (cheree hayes, tim mackie) — Wed, 7 Jul 2021 07:00:00 +0000

God’s people fail over and over again. We’re so messed up. Will there ever be a day when we get it right? The prophet Ezekiel said that God would renew his covenant by renewing hearts, and he’d do this by giving his own Spirit to those who trusted in him. God fulfilled his promise through Jesus. Now as followers of Jesus, we are invited to practice living with his Spirit. And as we do, we find our hearts are being renewed every day, filled with new desires and new decisions to love God and one another. Let’s reflect on this.

Bible Reading

Ezekiel 36:22-28

Reflection Questions

What is one specific area in your life that God has renewed by his Spirit?
What is one specific thing that may be hindering your life with God’s Spirit?
What is one step you can take with God’s Spirit today to overcome that hindrance?

Want to Go Deeper?

Check out this episode's Bible Study to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion. Go to bibleproject.com/study.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Tim Mackie
Bible Reading: Michelle Jones
Production: Dan Gummel and Zach McKinley
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: "Chapters" by Josh Leake

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Learning How to Grieve from Lamentations

admin@bibleproject.com (Carissa Quinn, Cheree Hayes) — Wed, 30 Jun 2021 07:00:00 +0000

The biblical authors of Lamentations and Psalms invite us to express our grief, anger, and sadness to God. But this is hard. It’s so much easier to either avoid pain with numbing distractions or vent out frustrations without ever bringing them to God. But he is patient. He understands how painful our situations are, and he cares and grieves with us. Today, let’s practice grieving with him.

Bible Reading

Lamentations 3:22-33

Reflection Questions

What is one specific area you are grieving right now? Notice the sensations you experience as you think about it and take a moment to express each feeling to God.
Now continue your prayer to God by asking him to show his compassion toward your painful situation.
While you wait on God’s answer to your prayers, imagine giving Jesus the weight of your grief and concerns now. What does it look like as he carries it? What do you imagine him doing to show his compassion in your situation?

Want to Go Deeper?
Check out this episode's Bible study to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion. Go to bibleproject.com/study.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes

Message: Dr. Carissa Quinn

Production and Bible Reading: Dan Gummel

Theme music: Grant William Harold

Background Music: "Fluttering" by Marshall Usinger

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The Deep Anguish of God

admin@bibleproject.com (cheree hayes, tim mackie) — Wed, 23 Jun 2021 07:00:00 +0000

The prophetic books are intense, so it’s easy to skip ahead to more comfortable portions of the Bible. But Jesus often used the prophets’ words to describe what he was all about. So if we want to know Jesus, we need to read the prophets. And as we do, we can learn that when God’s people reject him, they are rejecting life itself. The disorder, chaos, and suffering that results is painful and it grieves God. But there is hope that God’s people can return to the life that he offers.

Bible Reading

Jeremiah 4:16-28

Reflection Questions

1. Imagine the power of the moment when God spoke, “let there be light” and said it was good. What is one way you’ve experienced God’s goodness as you’ve followed his life-giving words?

2. When we reject God’s life-giving words, sooner or later we are left with darkness, chaos, and void. This causes deep anguish. What is one way you have experienced anguish when you or others have rejected God’s words?

3. Take a moment to reflect in prayer. Ask God for one specific way you can respond to his words today. Listen for what he brings to mind.

Want to Go Deeper?

Check out this episode's Reflections Bible Study guide to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion. Go to bibleproject.com/study.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Tim Mackie
Bible Reading: Michelle Jones
Production: Dan Gummel
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: "Tides" by Some Were at Sea

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Wisdom from Sensual Love Poetry?

admin@bibleproject.com (cheree hayes, carissa quinn) — Wed, 16 Jun 2021 07:00:00 +0000

We all long to be truly seen, known, and loved by God and others. We want to fully give ourselves to these deep relationships. The Song of Songs is about that desire, that dream that imagines the unity of Heaven and Earth. One day this dream will be fully realized, but until then, we have access to unity with Jesus. He invites us into a real and intimate relationship. And in him, we can know a love that cannot be quenched or swept away—a love that can overflow toward others and heal creation.

Bible Reading

Song of Songs 8:6-7

Reflection Questions

1. Think about an inspiring romantic relationship that you’ve witnessed in real life, a movie, or a book. What inspired you most about it?

2. What is one feature of that romance that could give you an example of what it means to be in a relationship with God?

3. What is one thing that might be hindering intimacy in your relationship with God? What is one small step you can take to grow in that area today?

Want to Go Deeper?

Check out this episode's Reflections Bible Study guide to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion. Go to bibleproject.com/study.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes

Message: Dr. Carissa Quinn

Cited: Davis, Ellen. "Reading the Song Iconographically." The Journal of Scriptural Reasoning, 2003.

Production and Bible Reading: Dan Gummel

Theme music: Grant William Harold

Background Music: "A Longing," by Sean Williams

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One Handful of Rest

admin@bibleproject.com (Tim Mackie, Cheree Hayes) — Wed, 9 Jun 2021 07:00:00 +0000

How can we approach our responsibilities in life with wisdom and healthy mindsets? In this episode, we open the book of Ecclesiastes and discover some practical advice for how to live realistically.

Bible Reading

Ecclesiastes 4:4-12

Reflection Questions

1. Everyone can relate to the desire to either escape or control their lives. Which approach do you relate to most?

2. What specific area of your life are you inclined to escape or control right now?

3. What would it practically look like for you to engage that area of your life with open-handed trust? What’s one small step you can take today?

Want to Go Deeper?

Check out this week’s Reflections Bible Study to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion. Go to bibleproject.com/study.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes

Message: Dr. Tim Mackie

Bible Reading: Michelle Jones

Production: Dan Gummel

Theme music: Grant William Harold

Background Music: "Approaching" by Be Still the Earth.

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Power of Metaphor

admin@bibleproject.com (cheree hayes, carissa quinn) — Wed, 2 Jun 2021 07:00:00 +0000

What is the purpose of metaphor in the Bible? The biblical authors use metaphors to help us better understand the world, God, and ourselves. In today’s episode, we reflect on the surprising metaphor of God giving birth. In the book of Job, we see God giving birth to elements of creation, and in the book of Isaiah, God is depicted as both a warrior and a mother giving birth to a new reality.

Bible Reading

Isaiah 42:13-16

Reflection Questions

1. A mother often suffers to deliver her baby. Let’s reflect on how God suffered to deliver us. What comes to mind when you compare the sufferings of Jesus to the pains of a mother in labor?

2. How does imagining God as a mother in labor reshape your understanding of his relationship to creation?

3. Giving birth is a powerful experience for both the mother and the baby. What’s one specific way you have experienced God’s life-giving power?

Want to Go Deeper?
Check out this episode's Bible study to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion. Go to bibleproject.com/study.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes

Message: Dr. Carissa Quinn

Production and Bible Reading: Dan Gummel

Theme music: Grant William Harold

Background Music: "Present" by Sean Williams

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How to Live Wisely

admin@bibleproject.com (tim mackie, cheree hayes) — Wed, 26 May 2021 07:00:00 +0000

What does it mean to fear the Lord and be wise?

The book of Proverbs helps us understand how to live by God’s wisdom. It teaches us that true wisdom isn’t just knowing the right thing to do––it’s about doing it. But how do we know what the right decisions are in every situation? The Scriptures show us that God understands what is good and bad in the world. So to be wise, we must first recognize that our own perspectives are limited and God knows what we can’t comprehend. This humble dependence is called the “fear of the Lord,” and it’s where all wisdom starts. From this posture of reliance, we can begin to learn from God and live in light of his wisdom. So what does God say is wise? Jesus shows us the way. He perfectly embodies God’s wisdom and summarizes what it means by calling us to love others as he loved us.

Bible Reading

Proverbs 1:1-7

Reflection Questions

1.What is one specific decision that impacts others that you are weighing right now?

2. Has Jesus faced a decision that impacted others in a similar way? How did he wisely love others with his choice?

3. With all this in mind, what would it look like to wisely love others with your decision?

Want to Go Deeper?

Check out this episode's Bible study guide to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion. Go to bibleproject.com/study.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Tim Mackie
Bible Reading: Michelle Jones
Production: Dan Gummel
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: Pete Johnson, Reflections

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How God Replies to Job’s Suffering

admin@bibleproject.com (Carissa Quinn, Cheree Hayes) — Wed, 19 May 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Today we open the book of Job, a complex story about a good man who suffered the cosmic loss of everything. What did God want Job to know in the midst of his suffering? And what do we need to know in our own suffering?

In this episode, we remember that we’re not alone in hardship and that God is trustworthy. Even when the pain is so intense that we can barely see beyond it, God is at work limiting chaos and giving life.

Bible Reading

Job 38:1-18

Reflection Questions

1. What is one area of suffering in your life or in the world? Take some time now to tell God how you feel about it. He hears you.

2. Ask God for more understanding. How might he be working to limit the chaos in that painful situation? What comes to mind as you listen for his wisdom?

3. How might God be laboring to give life even in the midst of suffering? If you can’t see any signs of life yet, keep watching. God doesn’t let pain have the final word against his people.

Want to Go Deeper?

Check out this episode's Bible study guide to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion. Go to bibleproject.com/study.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Carissa Quinn
Production and Bible Reading: Dan Gummel
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: Sean Williams, Fortitude

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God’s Mercy on Our Enemy

admin@bibleproject.com (Tim Mackie, Cheree Hayes) — Wed, 12 May 2021 07:00:00 +0000

How can we show God’s mercy to people who’ve hurt us?

In this episode, we are reflecting on the final chapter of the book of Jonah. God doesn’t just want Jonah to preach to his enemies, he wants Jonah to share his compassionate heart toward them too. Will Jonah agree with God’s compassionate perspective? The book ends with a question to give us the opportunity to self-reflect. So let’s do that together.

Bible Reading

Jonah 4:1-11

Reflection Questions

1. Who is someone in your life you struggle to love?

2. Picture this person from God’s perspective. How does God see them with compassion?

3. What is one way you can join God’s perspective and show love toward this person today?

Want to Go Deeper?

Check out this episode's Bible study to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion. Go to https://tbp.xyz/reflections20.

Show Credits:

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Tim Mackie Quinn
Bible Reading: Michelle Jones
Production: Dan Gummel
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: Josh Leake, Young Summer

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God’s Desire in Relationship

admin@bibleproject.com (Carissa Quinn, Cheree Hayes) — Wed, 5 May 2021 07:00:00 +0000

What does God really want as he relates to us? In this episode, we are reflecting on the book of Hosea, where we’ll discover what God desires in a relationship.

Here’s a quick overview. God promised to love Israel like a husband vows to love his bride. But Israel didn’t love him back––they cheated on him. This broke God’s heart but not his promise. God’s commitment to love his people is stronger than anything else. So while Israel still experienced the consequences of their unfaithfulness, God called them to remember his love and promised to heal the relationship. Jesus came to fulfill that promise for Israel and for us. And it’s because of Jesus that our hearts can be healed to faithfully love God back.

Bible Reading

Hosea 14:1-9

Reflection Questions

1. God wants to relate to us like a loving spouse not as a demanding boss. What are some of the key differences between these two relationships?

2. What comes to your mind as you think about God’s unrelenting love for you?

3. What might change in your relationship with God if you loved him the same way you’d want a spouse to love you? Think about it.

Want to Go Deeper?

Check out this episode's Bible study guide to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion. Go to bibleproject.com/study.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Carissa Quinn
Production and Bible Reading: Dan Gummel
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: Be Still the Earth, Cleanse

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What Good News Looks Like

admin@bibleproject.com (Cheree Hayes) — Wed, 28 Apr 2021 07:00:00 +0000

How is God at work in the world today? Jesus read from Isaiah 61 to describe what it looks like when the good news of his kingdom is at work in the world: the ignored are honored, the poor are fed, and the sick receive care. This kind of stuff happens wherever followers of Jesus honor him as King.

Bible Reading
Isaiah 61:1-11

Reflection Questions

Where do you think renewal is most needed in your part of the world?
Imagine God’s Kingdom bringing renewal to that situation. What do you think it would look like?
You and your community can partner with Jesus to begin to bring this renewal. And remember, small steps are significant! No matter how small, what's one specific step you can take to bring renewal today?

Want to Go Deeper?
Check out this episode's Bible study to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Tim Mackie
Bible Reading: Michelle Jones
Production: Dan Gummel
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: Be Still the Earth, In the Clouds

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Message of the Prophets

admin@bibleproject.com (Cheree Hayes, Carissa Quinn) — Wed, 21 Apr 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Who are the Hebrew prophets? What was the goal of their message? And how can their words bring hope to us today? God wants his people to flourish - to experience peace and joy in a community of love. But sin destroys a community. So God sends his prophets to warn his people, so they’ll turn from sin and its destruction. When Israel refuses to listen, they experience the awful consequences of their own ways, just like the prophets warned. But when Israel listens, they receive God’s promised mercy. And we can too. If we are honest about our sins, God forgives. Completely. That’s how God wants to show his faithfulness and justice to people. He forgives everyone who humbly comes to him.

Bible Reading

1 John 1:5-9

Reflection Questions
1. Remember God’s desire to have a thriving and peaceful relationship with you and your community. What thoughts come to mind as you think about this?

2. What specific things are hindering your relationship with God and others right now?

3. Take some time to be honest about those sins. Confess them to God and receive the peace of his forgiveness now.

Want to Go Deeper?
Check out this episode's Bible study guide to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion. Go to bibleproject.com/study.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Carissa Quinn
Production and Bible Reading: Dan Gummel
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: Sean Williams, Remember

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What God Does About Suffering

admin@bibleproject.com (Cheree Hayes, Tim Mackie) — Wed, 14 Apr 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Why does God allow so much suffering in the world? And is he doing anything about it? The Bible doesn’t answer all of our questions about why God allows suffering. But it does tell us a story about how God responds to human suffering. We learn that God has chosen to partner with humans to deliver communities from suffering, and that he chose to enter our pain by becoming human himself. Jesus took up the worst of human suffering, shoved it into a grave, and rose again to give us a new future––one that’s free of injustice and grief. Yes, our questions around suffering are valid. God hears us and understands our pain. Today, let’s tune into the question God has for us. As we face suffering in the world, will we partner with him to be a part of his solution?

Bible Reading

2 Kings 25:8-12, 27-30

Reflection Questions
1. What is one way your community is suffering now?

2. Consider God’s character of justice, mercy, and love. How does he want to comfort and restore your community?

3. What is one step you can take this week to join God’s plan of restoration?

Want to Go Deeper?
Check out this episode's Bible study to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Tim Mackie
Bible Reading: Michelle Jones
Production: Dan Gummel
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: Calme by Borrtex

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Redeeming Disappointment

admin@bibleproject.com (Cheree Hayes, Dan Gummel, Carissa Quinn) — Wed, 7 Apr 2021 00:06:19 +0000

Where is God when the people we look up to disappoint us? In this episode, we learn how Israel’s long line of disappointing kings is meant to point us to a greater King, Jesus. He is the true David and a better Solomon. He leads God’s people with wisdom, unites the nations, and makes a way for God’s presence to dwell among his people. Wherever people disappoint, King Jesus is there, inviting us into the beauty of his temple––his perfect presence.

Bible Reading

1 Kings 6:23-31

Reflection Questions
1. Are you disappointed with someone today? Take some time to express how you feel in a prayer to God right now.

2. Consider how Jesus faced similar disappointments to us. Think about it and take some time to empathize with him.

3. Remember, where people disappoint, Jesus is there to invite us into his presence. Take time now to ask for his perfect love to restore every area of disappointment.

Want to Go Deeper?
Check out this episode's Bible study to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Carissa Quinn
Production and Bible Reading: Dan Gummel
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: Be Still the Earth, Within Reach

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Faithful Through Failure

admin@bibleproject.com (Cheree Hayes) — Wed, 31 Mar 2021 01:09:59 +0000

How does God respond when we fail to represent his goodness in the world?

Humanity’s failures never cancel God’s faithfulness to his promise. In fact, the God of Israel became human to fulfill the promise himself. Jesus, the long awaited King, faithfully completed everything we have left undone.

Bible Reading
2 Samuel 7:8-17

Reflection Questions

What is one way God has been faithful to you recently?
What is one specific way you’d like to grow in your faithfulness to Jesus?
Who could be an ally in your life to help you grow, and how can you reach out to them today?

Want to Go Deeper?
Check out this episode's Bible study to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Tim Mackie
Production and Bible Reading: Dan Gummel
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: Blue by IamDayLight

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When You Feel Powerless

admin@bibleproject.com (Cheree Hayes) — Wed, 24 Mar 2021 00:16:33 +0000

What should we do when life is unfair and everything feels out of control? In this episode, we are reflecting on God’s powerful response to the cries of the powerless. If today you are feeling helpless before bullies and institutions, listen in. Today’s message will encourage and empower you. And if you are in a position of authority, stay tuned. This reflection will inspire you to humbly use your power to lift others up.

Bible Reading
1 Samuel 2:1-10

Reflection Questions

In what areas has God given you power? How can you use your position to elevate others this week?
In what ways do you feel powerless today? How does today’s message encourage you?
Take a moment to remember Jesus and how his humble suffering led to the power of resurrection life.

Want to Go Deeper?
Check out this episode's Bible study to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Tim Mackie
Production and Bible Reading: Michelle Jones
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: Jon Gegelman, Carried Strings of Epic Kings

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How God Treats His Enemies

admin@bibleproject.com (Cheree Hayes) — Wed, 17 Mar 2021 01:15:57 +0000

Where is God in the midst of impossible situations? In today’s episode, we’re reflecting on Ruth, a woman who came from a nation that violently opposed God’s people. Despite this, Ruth became an example of God’s loyal love even in the midst of impossibly difficult circumstances. We’ll also reflect on God’s impartial and merciful character and the hope he offers to all who trust in him.

Bible Reading
Ruth 2:11-12

Reflection Questions:

What feels impossibly difficult in your life or community right now?
God is present in and through hard times. There is hope. Take a moment now to remember that God cares for you and your community.
Ask God to transform your impossible circumstances into brilliant new possibilities.

Want to Go Deeper?
Check out this week’s Bible study to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Carissa Quinn
Production and Bible reading: Dan Gummel
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background music: Dear Gravity, Riven (ft. We Dream of Eden)

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When We Walk Out on God

admin@bibleproject.com (Cheree Hayes) — Wed, 10 Mar 2021 02:34:49 +0000

What happens when we turn our backs on God? In this episode, we are reflecting on how God responds when his people walk out on him and when they return.

Bible Reading
Judges‬ ‭2:10-19‬

Reflection Questions

In what ways have you tried to do life on your own apart from God?
What comes to mind when you imagine God running toward those who return to him?
Take this moment to pray and return to God any areas of your life that you’ve held back.

Want to Go Deeper?
Check out this episode's Bible study to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Carissa Quinn
Production and Bible Reading: Dan Gummel
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: "Walk with Me" by Reuben Y. Cottingham

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Making Sense of Divine Violence

admin@bibleproject.com (Cheree Hayes) — Wed, 3 Mar 2021 02:19:48 +0000

There’s a lot of violence in the Old Testament, but isn’t God loving? How do we make sense of all this? In this episode, we are exploring a few key things to keep in mind while looking at the topic of violence in the Bible.

Note to parents: The terms genocide, child sacrifice, sexual fertility rituals, and sex slavery are used in this episode. Before listening with your child, consider if they are ready to be introduced to these concepts and if you are prepared to carefully answer any follow-up questions they may have.

Bible Reading:
Joshua 1:1-9

Reflection Questions:

How do you see violence at work in your community?
Consider God’s character of justice, mercy, and love. How does he want to restore your community?
What is one step you can take this week to join God’s justice, mercy, and sacrificial love?

Want to Go Deeper?
Check out this episode's complete Bible study to access a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion.

You can also review this blog on the BibleProject website, “Why Did God Command the Invasion of Canaan in the Book of Joshua” by Andy Patton.

Show Credits:

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Tim Mackie
Production and Bible Reading: Dan Gummel
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: "Tides" by Some Were At Sea

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Understanding Ancient Laws

admin@bibleproject.com (Cheree Hayes) — Wed, 24 Feb 2021 03:36:33 +0000

How can we understand the ancient laws in the Old Testament? And what’s the point of reading them today? In this episode, we are learning how to read the ancient laws that God gave to Israel and reflecting on how they can impact our choices today.

Bible Reading
Deuteronomy 30:15-18

Reflection Questions

What is one specific choice you can make to love God and others this week?
How do you think that choice could bring life to those around you?
What is the first step you can take with God to carry out that choice today?

Want to Go Deeper?
Check out this episode's Bible study to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion.

Show Credits:

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Carissa Quinn
Production and Bible Reading: Dan Gummel
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: Horizon by Cloud Cover

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God's Wisdom on Display

admin@bibleproject.com (Cheree Hayes) — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 02:35:41 +0000

Why did God give his people so many rules? In this episode, we’re reflecting on the wisdom and purpose of God's commands.

Bible Reading
Deuteronomy 4:5-9

Reflection Questions

Wisdom and understanding is gained when we live out the knowledge we have received. Think of someone who is wise. Consider an example from the Bible or from someone in your life. What do you admire about this person?
Before this person could display God’s wisdom, they first had to receive it. What do you think this person does to practically receive God’s wisdom?
When God’s wisdom becomes a lifestyle, it becomes a light to the world. How have you noticed this person show God’s wisdom to the people around them?

Want to Go Deeper?
Check out this episode's Bible study guide to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion.

Show Credits:

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Tim Mackie
Production and Bible Reading: Dan Gummel
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: Reuben Y. Cottingham

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Trusting God in the Wilderness

admin@bibleproject.com (Cheree Hayes) — Wed, 10 Feb 2021 02:03:31 +0000

How does fear hold us back from experiencing God’s promises? In this episode, we reflect on God's trustworthy character and how he responds when his people fail to trust and follow him.

Bible Reading
Numbers 13:25-33

Reflection Questions

What specific fears or doubts have held you back from trusting and obeying God?
Instead of replaying your past or current fears, shift your focus to God. What comes to mind as you remember God’s trustworthy character?
Jesus leads all who trust in him into an experience of God’s promises. The road isn’t easy, but it leads to life. What is one step you can take today to trust and follow him?

Want to Go Deeper?
Check out this episode's Bible study to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Carissa Quinn
Production and Bible reading: Dan Gummel
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background music: "Washed Away" by David James Terry

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Gift of Rest

admin@bibleproject.com (Cheree Hayes) — Wed, 3 Feb 2021 02:00:44 +0000

In today’s episode, we’re reflecting on the meaning and importance of rest. As we explore the biblical concept of Sabbath and the ancient festival of Jubilee, we’ll find wisdom and principles that are still relevant for us today.

Bible Reading
Leviticus 25:1-12 and 18-21

Reflection Time

Take some deep breaths to remember that every breath we take is a gift from God. While you inhale and exhale, reflect on God and your reliance on him.
Invite God into an aspect of your life that feels exhausting. Tell him one thing that’s weighing on you and ask him for his provision. As you do, remember he cares for you and wants you to experience his rest. He hears you.
Reflect on some of the gifts God has already given to meet your needs. What are some of the reasons you are thankful today?

Want to Go Deeper?
Check out this episode’s Bible study to watch a video and explore more detailed questions for personal study and group discussion.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Carissa Quinn
Production and Bible reading: Dan Gummel
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background music: "Fire, Sleeper" by Dear Gravity and We Dream of Eden

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Meaning of Sacrifice

admin@bibleproject.com (Cheree Hayes) — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 02:01:55 +0000

In today’s reflection, we are exploring the biblical theme of sacrifice and atonement. It can feel strange and uncomfortable at first, but as we learn more, we’ll discover just how life-giving and powerful this biblical theme is.

Bible Reading

Hebrews 10:11-22

Reflection Questions

God is faithful and just to forgive us when we admit our sins. So let’s take time now to be honest as we answer this question: What comes to mind when you think about how you’ve sinned against God and others?
Let’s take time now to receive and rely on his forgiveness. What feelings, images, or thoughts come to mind as you invite Jesus to remove your sin?
Through Jesus, God removes our sin, makes us pure, and commits to help us live out his love. What can you sacrifice for someone today to show them the love of Jesus?

Want to Go Deeper?
View this episode's Bible study to watch a video and explore more questions for personal study and group discussion.

Show Credits:

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Carissa Quinn
Production and Bible Reading: Dan Gummel
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: Pilgrim: Some Were at Sea

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Rescued for a Purpose

admin@bibleproject.com (Cheree Hayes) — Wed, 20 Jan 2021 01:45:29 +0000

Last week, we explored how God rescues his people when they cry out to him. In today’s episode, we’re reflecting on why God rescues his people. He doesn’t only free us from corruption, he free us for restoration. His rescue is not just for us but for the restoration of the whole world.

Bible Reading:
Exodus 19:1-6

Reflection Questions:

Choose one of the following characteristics of God to reflect on: wisdom, justice, or love. How have you specifically experienced that one characteristic of God in your life?
Where do you lack an experience of one of these characteristics in your life?
Let’s invite God’s Spirit of wisdom to empower our reflection of his character. Ask God how he wants to show his wisdom, justice, or love through you today. Listen for what he brings to mind.

Want to Go Deeper?

Watch a video and explore more questions for yourself or group discussion online. View this episode's Bible study.

Show Credits

Host: Cheree Hayes
Message: Dr. Carissa Quinn
Production and Bible Reading: Dan Gummel
Theme music: Grant William Harold
Background Music: "Fields of Meditation" by Emmanuel Jacob

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When We Cry Out

admin@bibleproject.com (Cheree Hayes) — Wed, 13 Jan 2021 02:01:56 +0000

How does God respond when his people cry out to him? In this week's episode, we invite you to contemplate the ancient Exodus story for the first time or with fresh eyes.

Interested in more? Watch a video and explore more questions for yourself or group discussion online. View this episode's Bible study.

Wrestling God

admin@bibleproject.com (Cheree Hayes, Tim Mackie) — Wed, 6 Jan 2021 02:13:47 +0000

Did God really pick a fight with Jacob in the middle of the night? Are we reading this right? In this reflection, we explore a fascinating story from Genesis that shows us God’s relentless commitment to bless his people despite themselves.

Interested in more? Watch a video and explore more questions for yourself or group discussion online. View this episode's Bible study.

Why God Gave Choice

admin@bibleproject.com (Carissa Quinn, Cheree Hayes) — Tue, 29 Dec 2020 08:00:00 +0000

In the opening pages of the Bible, God gives the first humans a choice. But why? In this podcast, we explore the first few pages of the book of Genesis and what it means for God to give humanity choice.

Interested in more? Watch a video and explore more questions for yourself or group discussion online. View this episode's Bible study.

Trailer: Reflections

admin@bibleproject.com (Jon Collins, Cheree Hayes, Carissa Quinn, Tim Mackie) — Fri, 18 Dec 2020 20:30:23 +0000

Welcome to Reflections, a micropodcast by BibleProject. Each episode includes a short message from one of our Bible scholars, a narration of a Scripture passage, and a time to reflect and respond to a series of thoughtful questions. A new episode releases each Wednesday.