The Questনমুনা

God already knows your heart. He can already read your thoughts. And when you’re finished with the study, you can shred your journal if you want or burn it into ashes, but between now and then, it’s the real you with the real Master of the universe. There’s something you want more than answers. You want revelation. You were made for it. So was I.

Why on earth would God ask man questions when He already knows the answers? Perhaps He will one day offer dozens of explanations, but over and over Scripture suggests this: God, our Maker, Redeemer, and King, wants interaction with His prized creation even in all our frailties and doubts and failures. And not just interaction. He wants engagement. And not just engagement. He wants intimacy.

With you. Not who you wish you were or act like you are in front of spectators. You.

Read Genesis 1:26–2:17 and 3:1-9, noting—perhaps marking—each verse containing words God spoke directly to Adam. What question did God ask in Genesis 3:9?

Now, switch places with Adam and let the divine inquisition land on you. Where are you? You have somewhere to go, but any accurate route to your destination begins with your present location. In a journal, write directly to God, describing where you presently are in your life. If you’re in a relatively good place, tell Him about it. Get specific like you would with someone who really cares and would rejoice with you. On the other hand, you may be in a monotonous place or a momentous, painful, or lonely place.

Describe where you are with complete freedom of speech to God. In all likelihood, you’re in a more nuanced place than one adjective can describe. Tell Him the complexities.

Truth be told, maybe you wish you could ask God the same question: “Lord, where are You? Where have You been recently?” or “Where were You when …?” Perhaps you know the answer biblically and theologically. Your head knows the Scripture promises that He will never leave you nor forsake you, but your heart presently feels like He is nowhere to be found. You really can ask Him where He is or, if it pertains to a previous season, where He was. 

Conclude your journaling today with Psalm 139:7-10, either borrowing the exact words of the psalmist or penning his expressions in your own words.