RTW 2022

Zechariah said to the angel, “How can I be sure this will happen? I’m an old man now, and my wife is also well along in years.”
Luke 1:18

In today’s reading, we read of two people who basically ask the same question of God. However, God’s response to these two individuals was very different.

Question #1
Zechariah said to the angel, “How can I be sure this will happen? I’m an old man now, and my wife is also well along in years.”
Luke 1: 18

Response #1
“But now, since you didn’t believe what I said, you will be silent and unable to speak until the child is born. For my words will certainly be fulfilled at the proper time.”
Luke 1:20

Questions #2
Mary asked the angel, “But how can this happen? I am a virgin.”
Luke 1:34

Response #2
The angel replied, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So, the baby to be born will be holy, and he will be called the Son of God.”
Luke 1:35

There’s a difference in asking God questions, and questioning God. The difference is in attitude.

• Mary asked in awe and faith.
• Zechariah asked with sarcasm and skepticism.

And truly, only God really knows the difference. He knows us better than we know ourselves.

And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him”
Hebrews 11:6

Asking God Questions

• Admit that I don’t understand the entire scope of the situation.
• Express my love to God, and my trust in His plans for me.
• Praise Him for His goodness, but don’t attack His character.
• Talk to God with great respect for His sovereignty.
• Keep my heart humble and my heart open.
• Ask questions, with a heart willing to accept the answer and respond in obedience.

And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him”
Hebrews 11:6

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I just put this together. {Face palm} The words are exactly the same. This just thrills my soul today. Both testaments started with the same phrase… In the beginning.

In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God.
John 1:1

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
Genesis 1:1

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Lord, I believe in You. I put my trust in You.