We all struggle with questions of some kind. In fact, at this point in history there is very little that is not in question. We question our future, our identity, and our purpose. We question our political leaders, lawmakers, and law enforcers. We question the motives of science and of corporations. Strangely, with so much uncertainty, our society can almost forget forget God and his relevance in our lives. While it can be good to challenge the status quo, questioning is only good when it leads to a search for truth.
A compass operates by detecting the Earth’s natural magnetism. This simple device relying on an unseen force is able to provide us direction. This consistent direction keeps us from becoming disoriented when we are travelling or exploring, and can be lifesaving when you are lost. However, if you are carrying another magnet with you, it will disrupt the detection of Earth’s magnetic fields. This interference impairs the compass’s ability to detect the true magnetic field, providing a false heading. Instead of leading us to rescue we only become further lost.
This is true of our moral compass as well. God provides us with moral direction through his word. When we look to it for guidance it helps to point us in the right direction. His word guides us toward the path that leads to order, peace, and unity. However, when we look to polarized sources for answers it disrupts our perception. When we start carrying the opinions of others, found in a variety of media sources, it is the same as carrying a magnet in our pocket. Our ability to detect the correct heading through God’s word is disrupted. The interference caused by others polarizing opinions only provides us with a false heading. Worldly opinions begin to guide us instead of God’s word until we are inevitably lost without even realizing it.
For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.
Galations 1:10
These outside sources are guiding us toward a path of skepticism, distrust, anger, resentment, and division. Even though we may know we are lost we are too stubborn to admit it. Instead we become opinionated and inflexible, convinced that we are the only ones who know the right heading.
A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion.
Proverbs 18:2
Disoriented, we forget the path we were searching for was one of peace, hope, love, and truth. If we hope to find our way, we have to start searching for answers in the right places. This begins by acknowledging that no person has all of the answers. We can’t rely on our political leaders, religious leaders, celebrities, media outlets, social media, or even ourselves to know the right way. We are all fallible and we are all lost. We have to take the magnet out of our pocket and cast it to the side. Only then can our moral compass detect God’s will so that we can start heading in the right direction.
Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.
Hebrews 12:14
It’s good to ask questions, but more importantly to pursue real answers. To pursue the truth, we are required to put aside our preconceived notions. It’s easy to be swayed by loud and opinionated voices, but there is only once voice of Truth. Satan uses our opinions to separate us from each other, it makes us easy prey. When our focus is on being right, it causes us to exclude every voice to the contrary.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Proverbs 1:7
Stubborn, willful ignorance is evidence of pride. This is why the Bible repeatedly reminds us not to quarrel with each other over opinions. We are instead encouraged to show humility in our interactions with others. When we take the time and effort to understand others, they become much more receptive to listening. With this approach we become partners in seeking the truth together.
Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.
Phillippians 2:3
The word of God holds the answer to every question, and God isn’t afraid of any question we might ask. He readily provides answers to those who are searching. Even questions about his existence or the truth about Jesus are readily answered.
“So, I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you”.
Luke 11:9
Do you have an active and personal relationship with God? Have there been questions or doubts standing between you and God? Are you searching for answers? Many people question before they can honestly believe; this is nothing to be ashamed about. Questioning is a natural step in the transition from blind faith to personal belief. It can be a dangerous journey, but when you truly search for truth you will always find God. Time and again God has transformed the lives of the ordinary and the lost. A personal relationship with Jesus is life changing because he reveals God’s love for us.
Seek and You Will Find 
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