Biblical Encouragement

12 Life-Changing Questions Found in the Bible and Why They Matter Today

Have you ever asked yourself some deep, soul-searching questions? It’s likely that most of us have. The thing is, most of those questions can be found in the Bible. Actually, there are very many questions found in the Bible. We can’t possibly list them all here. 

God has asked and used some thought-provoking questions to challenge, guide, and invite us into deeper reflections. This list of questions from the Bible is simply a survey of some of the most famous and important ones. They are still as relevant today, helping us explore what we believe, who we are, and guidelines for how to live. 

“Did God really say….?” (Genesis 3:1)

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This is the first instant someone is questioning God’s word. It is also the first question in the Bible. Satan undermined God’s command to them and created doubt in Eve’s mind. This led to Eve questioning God’s truth.

To make matters worse, Eve adds to God’s word, telling Adam: “And you must not touch it.” God told Adam not to eat the fruit from the tree, but He never said not to touch the tree or the fruit. They responded to Satan’s question by disobeying God’s command. That’s the beginning of man’s fall. 

Satan is very tactful. Playing mind games is his best weapon. He uses subtle manipulation and deception to twist the truth. That’s why it is extremely important to guard your mind and heart by staying in the place of prayer, being rooted in the scriptures, and having discernment for when you are being led astray.

“Where are you?” (Genesis 3:9)

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This is the first question God ever asked. He asked this of Adam and Eve after they sinned. He definitely knew exactly where they were located physically. 

Now that they had chosen to disobey Him, God was asking them whether things worked out for them. Did it go as they expected or as He (God) had predicted? He wanted them to contemplate their separation from Him. 

This question reveals God’s compassionate heart, like that of a shepherd who looks for his lost sheep and brings them back to the safety of his flock. 

We are called to examine our spiritual condition. We should examine whether we walk closely with God or have strayed from His presence. 

“Am I my brother’s keeper?” (Genesis4:9)

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This was Cain’s response to God after He asked him of the whereabouts of his brother Abel, who he had just murdered. 

This question reflects an attitude many of us have when we feel unwilling to take responsibility for the welfare of others. But hypothetically, “Are we our brother’s keeper?” Of course, we are, but it certainly doesn’t mean monitoring them constantly. It’s about caring enough to notice when something is wrong and being willing to intervene if and when necessary.  

We are challenged to think about how we treat those around us. Are you invested in the well-being of your neighbors, family, and friends? Do you distance yourself, ignoring their struggles? Cain’s question is a call to take responsibility for those God has placed in our lives.

“Is anything too hard for the Lord?” (Genesis 18:14) 

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God posed this rhetorical question when Sarah doubted she could bear a child in her old age. Sarah actually laughed in disbelief. This was impossible according to her human perspective. 

There is nothing God cannot do. This question was to remind her and us of His limitless power. It is a gentle yet powerful challenge to our doubts, showing that nothing is beyond God’s ability. 

When we are faced with unfavorable odds or situations that seem hopeless, this question prompts us to reflect on whether we truly believe that God can do anything—especially if it seems impossible to us. We are encouraged to trust in God’s strength and timing even when circumstances look unachievable. 

“Will not the judge of all the earth do right?” (Genesis 18:25)

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When God was going to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah, Abraham asked God this question while appealing to Him to spare the righteous from the destruction. He was not asking because he doubted; rather, he recognized that God, the ultimate judge, always acts with perfect justice. 

When we struggle to understand God’s actions, it is always because our limited human perspective distorts our sense of justice. 

When we question how a good and just God could allow certain things, remember that God’s justice is flawless, even when we don’t fully understand it. No one understands justice better than God. He is perfect in His judgments. This question calls us to trust that God’s ways are always right, whether we understand them or not. 

“How long will you refuse to humble yourselves before me?” (Exodus 10:3)

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God asked Pharaoh this question through Moses as a direct challenge to his pride and stubbornness.  Pharaoh had adamantly refused to acknowledge God’s authority and let the Israelites go. He hardened his heart despite witnessing all the plagues – a clear sign of God’s power – and His pride prevented him from submitting to God’s will. 

Pride is one of the things God hates most and it will not go unpunished. As Proverbs 16:18 says, “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” 

This question highlights the destructive power of pride and the consequences of refusing God’s call to humility. How often do we refuse to surrender to God, holding on to our ways and desires? Some problems we experience are a result of our stubbornness. Let go of pride and submit to God’s will. Let us humble ourselves before Him, and He will lift us up—this is a promise God has made. Humility is an open door to blessings and direction.

“Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” (Isaiah 6:8)

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God was asking Isaiah who would deliver His message. Isaiah responded with, “Here am I. Send me!” Many of us unfortunately respond with, “Here am I, but send someone else.” God was looking for someone to reach out to the Israelites.

This question is about sharing God’s truth with those around us. Isaiah’s response encourages us to be open and ready to serve God whenever He calls. So, are you ready and willing to answer the call and go wherever He sends you?

“Why are you so afraid?” (Mark 4:40)

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During a fierce storm, the disciples were terrified, fearing for their lives. Yet in that same boat, Jesus was asleep. When they woke Him in a panic, He calmed the storm with just a command. Then, He asked them, “Why are you so afraid?”

Despite witnessing countless miracles, they were overcome with fear in that moment of danger. Jesus’ question challenged their lack of faith, reminding them that trust in God shouldn’t waver in difficult times.

It’s easy to relate to this today. How often do we let fear take control, even though we know God’s promise never to leave us? We allow fear to cloud our faith, forgetting that God is greater than any problem we face. In moments of uncertainty, we must remember God’s words from Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” 

“Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” (Matthew 18:21)

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Forgiveness is difficult, and Peter’s suggestion may have seemed remarkably generous. However, Jesus’ answer reveals our inadequate understanding of what true forgiveness really means. He emphasizes that we must forgive endlessly, reflecting God’s boundless love and grace. 

We forgive not because someone deserves it but because it is the right thing to do. We do not deserve God’s grace, and we didn’t earn His forgiveness either, others may not deserve ours, but we are called to extend it freely. This is a call to let go of resentment and embrace the grace God has so generously given us. 

“What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?” (Matthew 16:26)

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Jesus asked His disciples this question just before His death. He urged them to consider the true value of life and to reflect on the eternal consequences of their choices, considering the world’s view of material success and worldly achievements. 

We are called to evaluate our priorities and what we truly value in life. Are we going after fleeting pleasure and temporary accomplishments, or are we also investing in our spiritual well-being and relationship with God? 

As we chase success, it’s important to remember that our time here is short, and everything we spend our lives pursuing will eventually be left behind.

The state of our soul is far more important than any worldly gain. Let us seek lasting fulfillment that is only found in Christ. 

“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?” (Matthew 7:3)

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Jesus asked this question during the sermon on the Mount. He was highlighting the hypocrisy often present in our judgment of others. He used this imagery to illustrate how we tend to focus on the minor faults while ignoring our significant shortcomings. 

Before you critique someone else, deal with your flaws first. Self-reflection and humility are very important in our relationships. When we identify our imperfections, we’ll approach others with grace and understanding, fostering a spirit of love.

“Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life? (Luke 18:18) and “What must I do to be saved” (Acts 16:30) 

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These two questions show the different approaches Jesus and Paul took to respond to a similar inquiry about salvation. 

Jesus identified the self-righteousness in the young, rich ruler who asked Him about inheriting eternal life. The man’s materialism and greed were major obstacles to his spiritual journey, even though he obeyed all the commandments. He had to confront the reality of his sin before grasping the need for salvation.

When the Philippian jailer asked Paul what he must do to be saved, Paul directed him to believe in Jesus. This response was tailored to the jailer’s willingness to accept the message of salvation. It led not only to his salvation but also to the salvation of his entire family. 

Similarly, today, people are in different stages of their spiritual journey. Some may believe they are doing enough to attain righteousness by their own effort, whereas some are desperate and ready to embrace salvation. It is important to discern the best approach to communicate God’s truth.  Be sensitive to where people are spiritually so that you can guide them to Jesus in a way that resonates with their hearts and circumstances. 

Engage, Reflect, Grow

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There are many other great questions in the Bible: questions from seekers, scoffers, discouraged believers, and from God. These questions are not just ancient words; they are living, relevant, and deeply personal. They invite us to engage with God, challenge our faith, and grow in wisdom.  This is an opportunity to reflect on our hearts and our relationship with God. 

Don’t be afraid to ask questions, but be prepared to accept God’s response when they come. As you reflect on these questions, may you be drawn closer to God and help you discover His purpose for your life. Let them stir your soul, challenge your mindset, and encourage you to trust God. He will offer guidance, love, and truth in return.

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Susan Komo Bio Image
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Susan is a mother of four beautiful babies and a born-again Christian. She took over Hope No Matter What in 2024 and enjoys sharing her knowledge of the goodness and faithfulness of God. Her passion is to bring hope and encouragement to others, and she prays that by sharing her knowledge and personal story, she can inspire others to find enlightenment in God's word.

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