Who You Are When No One's Looking Ch 4

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Questions and Answers

What was the primary difference in perspective between the two prisoners?

One thought of freedom while the other thought of confinement.

One saw hope and the other saw despair.

One focused on the bars while the other focused on the stars. (correct)

One envisioned a better future while the other was content with the present.

According to the business leader, what is lacking in the marketplace?

Visionaries who think creatively and propose new ideas. (correct)

Robots in the workforce.

Individuals who follow instructions.

People committed to preserving the status quo.

What qualities did the church leader seek in a pastor?

An individual willing to take risks and inspire change. (correct)

A visionary who would maintain the status quo.

Someone to uphold traditional values.

A person focused on administrative tasks.

What challenge do visionaries face compared to others?

They must have the courage to break from conventional thought. Signup and view all the answers

Why does the woman in the story feel uncertain about finding a visionary partner?

She perceives a shortage of visionaries in society. Signup and view all the answers

What defines a visionary person according to the chapter?

They use creativity to seek solutions to everyday problems. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reaction most individuals have when confronted with a significant problem?

They often dwell on the problem instead of seeking a resolution. Signup and view all the answers

How did Jesus respond to the crooked accountant's actions in the parable?

He praised the accountant's ingenuity and solution-seeking approach. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'vision' imply in the chapter discussed?

A character trait that everyone can develop for problem-solving. Signup and view all the answers

According to the chapter, what happens when individuals allow their problems to define them?

They lose sight of solutions and focus solely on the issue. Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step visionaries take when facing a problem?

They immediately commit to finding a solution. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of life does cultivating vision help to prevent?

Being overwhelmed by difficulties. Signup and view all the answers

According to the chapter, which Bible verse is associated with proving that all things are possible with God?

Matthew 19:26 Signup and view all the answers

What is the suggested practical step to find solutions to problems?

List potential solutions. Signup and view all the answers

When seeking wisdom to solve a problem, what should one believe according to the chapter?

God will generously give wisdom to those who ask. Signup and view all the answers

What type of people does Bill recommend meeting with when facing problems?

Solution-oriented individuals. Signup and view all the answers

What is the attitude one should have when listing potential solutions?

Humility, prayer, and openness. Signup and view all the answers

What feeling might someone experience when first taking steps towards a solution?

Fear and uncertainty. Signup and view all the answers

What does the chapter suggest about the nature of life?

Life is a series of problems and challenges. Signup and view all the answers

Why is claiming the promise that all things are possible with God important?

It underpins the Christian faith and motivates action. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Vision Defined

Vision is the ability to see possible solutions to everyday problems.
It's about being solution-oriented, not problem-oriented.
Visionaries don't get stuck on problems, they immediately search for solutions.

The Parable of the Crooked Accountant

This parable highlights the importance of vision.
While the accountant used unethical methods, Jesus praised his ingenuity and shrewdness.
This suggests that vision lies in recognizing and acting upon problems, even if the solutions aren't always ethical.

The Disciples and Salvation

Discussed as an example of how people can get stuck on problems and lose hope.
Jesus' response, "With human beings this is impossible, but with God all things are possible," emphasizes that even when problems seem insurmountable, God can provide solutions.

Practical Steps to Solve Problems

Repeat "With God all things are possible" – Remind yourself of God's power and ability to solve any problem.
Ask God for wisdom – Seek guidance and solutions through prayer and actively believing in the promise of God’s help.
Meet with solution-oriented people – Surround yourself with others who can offer practical advice and encouragement.
Make a list of potential solutions – Brainstorm ideas and have faith to pursue one solution at a time.

Vision Beyond Problem-Solving

Vision involves seeing beneath the surface of people's lives, recognizing their true potential, and drawing it out.
Recognizing things that are hard to see requires observation, conversation, and prayer.

The Story of Peter

Jesus saw Peter's potential beyond his impulsive and aggressive nature.
This is an example of how visionaries can see beyond the obvious and recognize true worth.

Vision in Different Relationships

Parents – Recognize and encourage their children's individuality.
Spouses – See beneath surface-level characteristics to find their mate’s true potential.
Business Leaders – Treat employees as individuals and harness their unique skills.
Discipelers – Recognize and mentor potential in young believers who may be struggling.
Witnesses – See the possibility of Christ transforming the lives of unbelievers.

Finding Your Vision

Vision includes understanding what God wants to do through our lives.
Recognizing our potential and believing in God's plans for us.
Overcoming self-doubt and believing in the possibility of God using us in extraordinary ways.

God's Call

God's voice is often muted by our own desires and fears.
The author felt God's call to serve the international church, despite the difficult circumstances.
The author frequently travels to different countries to minister to struggling church leaders.
The author finds joy in serving the church, regardless of its size or condition.
The author likens the joy of serving the church to the "pearls of great price."
God's smile is felt when serving His bride, the church.

Overcoming Challenges

The author experiences challenges and low energy in serving the church.
God motivates the author to continue serving by reminding him of his purpose.
The author emphasizes that serving God is a fulfilling endeavor.
The author believes that a life focused on God's vision creates a sense of fulfillment and excitement.

Refuse To See Bars

The author encourages readers to embrace God's vision and focus on the stars, not the bars (challenges).
The author believes that all things are possible with God.