February 3, 2024

Jesus would often respond to a question with a question. Not because He didn’t have an answer, but often because He was trying to draw out the true motives of the person asking. But another piece to it was that Jesus always wants to take us DEEPER. He always seeks to take us beyond the “what” to the “why.” He knows that our human hearts are filled with self-deception and scar tissue. We tend to shy away from going to those places in our lives. So He would ask questions that would take us there. And those questions can be quite disturbing.
There are several times on my journey with God that He has asked questions of me that have caused me great discomfort. Even shame. Like the time He pushed on me through my wife to deal with some unhealed scars. Scars I didn’t want to face. The question He asked was, “Why are you so angry?” That question haunted me into seeking counseling—which is one of the best gifts I’ve ever given myself. Another question God asked me one time was, “Why do you treat the worst the people you say you love the most?” God used that question to reveal how I’d been charming at church but taking out my stress on my family at home. Yeah, even pastors can be real jerks sometimes.
I could go on and on with other questions God used to dissect me, but the point I’m making is that those questions took me to places I didn’t want to go to confront stuff I’d much rather avoid. But I have to say that out of those questions have come some of the best work that God has done in my life. Because rather than stay on the surface with Him, I allowed Him to take me to where the real healing and repentance needed to happen. Trust me, God’s questions can absolutely wreck you. But facing those questions can be truly transformative.
What do you think God would ask YOU if you gave Him the chance? What might He ask you about your life, your marriage, or your walk with Him? What unhealed hurt might he ask about? What unchecked attitude or behavior might He question? Where in your heart or soul might God take you if you gave Him free rein? I dare you to sit with this thought today and let God speak to you. Quiet your heart, open your mind, and pray this prayer: “Jesus, what questions would you like to ask me?” Then get ready for the most wonderful and uncomfortable ride of your life. That’s God’s Word for you today.