A New Direction

Asking questions must be a God-given attribute—if we did not ask questions, we would not search for truth—or receive a revelation of truth. (Revelation is Scripture that God opens up for us. He illuminates His Word in our hearts and minds.)

However, after God gives us meaningful answers via revelation, the nature of our curiosity changes. For an example of this, look at the Old Testament character named Job. After God answered his questions via a revelation, Job could only say things like, I am unworthy—how can I reply? . . . (Job 40:4a NIV)

Isaiah’s response was similar when he received a revelation: Woe is me! . . . I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips . . . and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty. (Is. 6:5)

But neither man stopped searching; their quests simply took off in new directions. The new concern became pleasing God—and discovering how to follow His Will. That requires asking questions, too.

Originally published October 4, 1985.
Picture: Como Park Conservatory, St. Paul, 2009. Photo by Solveig.

Purposed in the Spirit

Paul was on his third missionary journey when he purposed in the Spirit . . . to travel again to Jerusalem. . . . (Acts 19:21b NKJV)

The phrase purposed in the Spirit (note the capital “S” in Spirit) is one of those sticky or controversial spots in Scripture. The New International Version of the Bible reads, Paul decided. . . . These translations do not quite agree.

The New American Standard Bible reads, Paul purposed in the spirit (note the small “s”). The small “s” has a footnote telling the reader the translators will not commit themselves to whether “spirit” means Paul’s human spirit or God’s Holy Spirit.

Did Paul decide in his own spirit or did he respond to a leading from God’s Spirit? Or a combination of the two? Whatever the case, from that point on Paul received many warnings telling him he would end up in a prison if he went to Jerusalem. But he went to Jerusalem anyway, regardless of the consequences. He had decided or purposed in the Spirit. He either would not—or could not—turn away from God’s call or God’s claim upon his life.

Originally published May 20, 1988.
Picture: Hollyhocks near Lindenwood Park, Fargo, 2009. Photo by Solveig.

They Knew What to Do

Jesus’ disciples had learned how to follow instructions. This was necessary when Jesus prepared for his entry into Jerusalem. Whether or not He knew the entry would be triumphant, He took Old Testament prophecies into account, and He needed help from His disciples to follow through.

So He sent a few disciples to secure a colt, and He gave detailed instructions before they left: Go into the village opposite you; and as soon as you have entered it you will find a colt tied, on which no one has sat. Loose it and bring it. (Mk. 21:2,3 NKJV)

He also told them what to say if someone challenged them. And someone did, apparently not the owner but people on the street.

It required courage for the disciples to stand firm. If they had not been sure of their mission and of Jesus’ instructions, they might have faltered. As it was, however, they knew exactly what they should do—exactly what they should say—and they followed through by releasing the colt and by speaking just as Jesus had commanded them. (v. 6a)

Originally published April 10, 1992.