Ever Asked God a Question?

Sometimes God honors our questions with greater revelation; sometimes He slaps our hands a bit.

So, what’s the difference?

Zechariah and Mary both questioned the angel’s announcement, so why was Zechariah chastised and Mary wasn’t?

When Gabriel appeared to Zechariah to tell him that his wife, Elizabeth, would bear a son, Zechariah asked, “How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well along in years.” Luke 1:18

Zechariah’s question challenged God’s sovereignty, even though, as a priest, he should have known God’s power full well. “How can I be sure?” In other words, “Prove to me that this can happen!”

When Gabriel appeared to Mary to tell her she would be the mother of God’s Son, she asked, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” Luke 1:34

Mary’s question came out of pure innocence. She understood conception and but didn’t understand Gabriel’s pronouncement. “How can this happen?” She really asked, “Help me understand.”

Two questions – a world of difference!

As we learned with Zechariah, God doesn’t take kindly to a challenge. He’s the One and Only Almighty God; He doesn’t have to prove Himself to us. 

God cherished Mary’s desire to understand and He cherishes our questions. He honors our honest seeking and reveals Himself to us.

The light of His teaching shines on us when we approach Him with an honest desire to understand.

When have you questioned God with a heartfelt desire to learn from Him?
How did He draw near to you and reveal Himself to you?