Turning to God with Questions
By Vivian Bricker
Bible Reading:
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind” (James 1:5-6).
Similar to many people, I have many questions for God. Questions such as “Why did this have to happen?” and “Why do I have to struggle so much?” are constantly scratching at my heart. Maybe you also have many questions for God. All of these questions are valid and will be answered one day. Although you might not have these questions answered immediately, they will be answered in the future.
We do not need to keep silent when we are troubled by questions. Instead of remaining quiet, we must speak up and bring these questions to God. Think about the questions you have in your heart today. Ask God these questions today. Don’t hesitate to ask God whatever is on your mind.
No question is too hard for God. Often, we feel as though asking questions of God is not right. This is untrue, as God wants us to bring all our questions to His feet. As you think about your questions, remember that no question is off-limits. God already knows what is on your mind, including the questions on your heart.
Acknowledge your dependence on God by asking these questions. You might be surprised at how fast God will give you an answer. Even if your question is not answered immediately, it will be answered in time. If it is never responded to during your earthly life, know that all answers will be given in Heaven. We might not understand the pain right now, but one day, we will understand and see God’s work through our situation.
Finding Answers in God
James 1:5-6 instructs us to turn to God. The half-brother of the Lord tells us, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you” (James 1:5). If we are not having our questions answered, we can turn to God for wisdom. As James tells us, we need to ask God for wisdom. Once we ask God for wisdom, He will give it generously.
James also tells us, “But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind” (James 1:6). The second half of this passage shows that it is vital for us to believe and not doubt when we go to God in prayer. Whether praying for deliverance, healing, or bringing our questions before God, we need to believe and not doubt.
The one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, always blown and tossed by the wind. If we doubt God and His ability to answer our prayers, our doubt will drown out our faith. This is why we must have faith, truly believe, and not doubt God. Once we truly believe that God will answer our prayers and answer our questions, we will receive our answers, both for prayer and for our questions.
Bring all of your questions, concerns, and thoughts to God today. Give Him all of these worries and trust Him with the outcome. God will answer your questions and bring relief to your troubles. For the time being, have faith and believe. Don’t doubt—choose to believe in God. Just as you trust God with your salvation, trust Him with your questions and concerns.
“Dear God, I have many questions for you. I was once afraid to ask questions, but now I know bringing my questions to you is good. I will give you all my questions today, and I trust you with their answers. I have faith in You, and I believe. I do not doubt you at all. Thank you for always hearing my prayers and my questions. In Your Son’s Name, I pray, Amen.”
Intersecting Faith & Life:
What is causing you to hold your questions back from God today? Are you willing to let go of these causes to give these questions to God?
Presenting our prayers and questions before God without believing in Him and His abilities is impossible. How can you overcome doubt today?
What questions will you bring to God today?
Further Reading:
Philippians 4:6-7
1 Corinthians 2:16
Habakkuk 1:2
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/ChristianChan
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