Monday, June 28, 2010

Retreat Reflections III - 4 Questions God Will Ask

"For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him." 2 Chronicles 16:9a

This blog entry is the last in a brief series highlighting some of the issues we touched on at our Spring Women's Retreat. The last entry mentioned 4 questions God will never ask. This time we will briefly touch on 4 questions God will and does ask of each of us at different times:

1) Do you love me? (John 21:15-17)
2) Do you believe? (Mark 9:24)
3) Is this really what you want? (Proverbs 14:12)
4) Are you ready to let go? (Matthew 10:39)

As a student in high school, I discovered that my favorite teacher was an American History teacher who was always asking questions. I learned the most from him because he made me think and search and explore and ask why!

As one who enjoys teaching now, I often find the most effective way to get a point across is to ask questions and cause those I am teaching to search for the truth. When it comes to the issues of life and purpose and reality, there is only one truth - His name is Jesus. He said in John 10:10, " I am the way, the truth and the life, no man comes to the Father but through me." He never forced himself on anyone when he walked this earth. The same is still true today--God will never force himself on you. But he will ask you some very pointed questions in order to get you to think and search and explore. He doesn't even mind if we ask "why" but the answers may not always come when we think we need them. Psalm 18:30 says that His ways are perfect.

God is looking for committed hearts. Look at the 4 questions above and allow Him to ask them of you.

"He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose." Jim Elliot

1 comment:

ROBERT LLOYD RUSSELL said...

Great comments about a great topic!
You may be interested to know that I recently edited a new book which contains Jim Elliot messages. These were transcribed from old wire recordings (forerunner to magnetic tape). The messages are so pertinent to authentic Christian living and fit very well with the theme of your blog. ("JIM ELLIOT: A Christian Martyr Speaks to You" - ISBN 9781615797646)
Please keep on blogging for our Lord. May God richly bless your ministry.