Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – March 5, 2015
The other guests began to say among themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” Luke 7:49
I don’t always like for others to ask me questions. If I am in a hurry or if I suspect someone’s intentions, I tend not to listen as well. I resist what I believe are bad questions. However, what I sometimes see as bad questions, are really good ones. My willingness to slow down, be patient and take to heart another’s heartfelt concern helps me process a better outcome. Good questions are gracious and genuine. They seek clarity, so the one questioning better understands the idea, the situation or the person. Good questions act as my ally to assist me in avoiding bad decisions.
Jesus entered the home of a religious leader and was greeted by a repentant prostitute. Her foot washing was a forerunner of how Jesus would later model love to His disciples. With her hair, and tears from a cleansed heart, she wiped clean His feet. She loved Jesus much, because she had been forgiven much. Christ publicly announced the forgiveness of this woman’s sin—and so begged a question from the guests. Who is this (a local carpenter) who even forgives sins? A good question—it got to the bottom line. Only God can forgive sin. Jesus is either God or not.
“Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven” (Luke 7:48).
Do you ask good questions? Are you able to receive good questions with a humble and non-defensive attitude? The ability to ask good questions is a skill learned by observing those skilled in questioning. Good questions get to the heart of a matter: “Why do you want a promotion?” “Why do you want to get married?” or “Why do you seek an open door for a particular opportunity?” Good questions probe a person’s motive and help them think about the implications of their decisions. Good questions assure they are answering the right questions.
Furthermore, learn to listen to another’s point of view. They may not have all the details of your situation, but they have your back. Give them the benefit of the doubt. They have your best interest in mind. Trust that a spouse or friend’s questioning is part of God’s methodology to process His will. Good questions are God’s gift to discover His best. Most of all, be open to questions about your relationship with Jesus. Is it vibrant or stagnant? Are you growing in intimacy with Christ or flirting with sin? Good questions about God help you hear and know God’s heart.
“Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace” (Luke 7:50).
Prayer: Heavenly Father, open my heart to penetrating questions that humble me.
Related Readings: Genesis 27:20; Job 9:2; John 6:68; Galatians 4:9; 1 Thessalonians 3:9
Post/Tweet this today: Good questions act as my ally to assist me in avoiding bad decisions. #goodquestions #wisdomhunter
Additional Resource: 4 minute music video- Hillsong: I’m Not Ashamed
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