Why Curiosity Is Key

One of the most powerful tools that we have to experience God at a deeper level is curiosity.

Often times, we think of curiosity as some type of juvenile, childish wonder. We think of characters like Curious George.

True curiosity is extremely powerful, and I believe that we have to have it if we are to experience God at levels that we never have before.

Curiosity, by definition, is a strong desire to know or to learn something.

Matthew 5:6 tells us…

When we have a strong desire to know God, we will run right into Him. There are many examples in the Bible of individuals who had a strong desire to know God, to be in His presence, and to learn of His ways:

Blind Bartimaeus- refused to be denied and quieted when he knew Jesus was in his proximity.

Zaccheus- despite his height, he refused to settle, and would eventually climb up a tree just so that he could see Jesus.

Paralytic man & his friends- his friends refused to take no for an answer, and despite a packed house open the roof of a dwelling place, letting their friend down, so he could be healed by Jesus.

Rich Young Ruler- despite having it all, this young man, who Jesus had compassion on, tried his best to follow Jesus despite his relationship with riches.

Woman with the issue of blood- despite her condition, her size, and even her place in society, this woman said within herself that, “if I can just touch the hem of his garment, I would be made whole,” and she didn’t let anyone step in her way.

Syrophoenician woman- after enduring some strong words from Jesus, she was willing to accept “crumbs” because it was better than anything she could have gotten on her own (Mark 7:24-29).

Nicodemus- with the Pharisees being among the most targeted people by Jesus, Nicodemus knew that there was something about Jesus Christ of Nazareth, and would eventually make an appointment to see him at night to find out more of the truth that Jesus possessed.

God rewards curiosity; the Scriptures tell us that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6).

Even when Jesus spoke publicly, he did so in parables. However, when he was with those who were always seeking him, those who were always around him (the Disciples)… He spoke plainly.

Perhaps one of the most powerful verses that exhibits this concept is in Proverbs 25:2,

No matter how much you love God, He loves you more… and many times, He will hide things so that we run into Him in the process!

Could it be that God needs us to be curious about:

• The teammate who always eats by themselves?

• The janitor of grounds keeper who subconsciously blends in to environment?

• The friend who is constantly asking ‘spiritual’ questions?

• Going deeper in our personal prayer time and spiritual development?

• Organizing a time of Bible Study or fellowship for your team?

• Identifying best ways to serve people in your immediate circles?

• New ways to get better at our sport?

We need to be curious about what God is doing in and around us. When we are serious about curiosity, we may identify what He has put in front of us the entire time!

Your Friend,

Josiah