Introduction

Questioning and seeking are integral aspects of the human experience, often leading individuals to a deeper understanding of faith and a closer relationship with God. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that highlight the importance and value of questioning and seeking in the life of a believer.

Biblical Examples of Questioning

1. Abraham and God's Promises: Abraham, known as the father of faith, questioned God about His promises. In Genesis 15:2-3 , Abraham asks, "O Lord GOD, what can You give me, since I remain childless and the heir of my house is Eliezer of Damascus?" This questioning did not indicate a lack of faith but rather a desire for understanding and assurance.

2. Moses and His Calling: When God called Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, Moses questioned his own ability and God's choice. In Exodus 3:11 , Moses asks, "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?" This dialogue with God demonstrates that questioning can be part of discerning one's calling and purpose.

3. Job's Suffering: The Book of Job is a profound exploration of questioning in the face of suffering. Job questions God's justice and the reason for his afflictions. In Job 13:3 , he declares, "But I desire to speak to the Almighty and to argue my case before God." Job's questioning leads to a deeper revelation of God's sovereignty and wisdom.

4. Mary's Inquiry: When the angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would conceive Jesus, she questioned how this would be possible. In Luke 1:34 , Mary asks, "How can this be, since I am a virgin?" Her questioning was met with an explanation, showing that seeking understanding is welcomed by God.

Biblical Teachings on Seeking

1. Seeking God: The Bible encourages believers to seek God earnestly. In Jeremiah 29:13 , God promises, "You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart." This verse underscores the importance of a sincere and wholehearted pursuit of God.

2. Wisdom and Understanding: Proverbs 2:3-5 emphasizes the value of seeking wisdom: "If you indeed call out for insight and lift up your voice for understanding, if you seek it like silver and search it out like hidden treasure, then you will discern the fear of the LORD and discover the knowledge of God." Seeking wisdom is portrayed as a diligent and rewarding endeavor.

3. Jesus' Invitation: Jesus invites His followers to seek in Matthew 7:7-8 : "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened." This passage assures believers that their seeking will be met with divine response.

4. The Bereans' Example: The Bereans are commended for their approach to seeking truth. In Acts 17:11 , it is noted, "Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true." Their diligent search of the Scriptures serves as a model for believers.

The Role of Faith in Questioning and Seeking

While questioning and seeking are encouraged, they are to be conducted within the framework of faith. Hebrews 11:6 states, "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him." Faith provides the foundation for a fruitful journey of questioning and seeking, ensuring that it leads to spiritual growth and a deeper relationship with God.