Tough Questions

        I was recently at a conference where I was blessed to hear Anne Graham Lotz.  As is her typical package of teachings, she shared her three question approach to personal Bible study.

         Today, I listened as my husband shared of a friend who doesn't live here, but who is in ministry.  The friend confided in Greg, that he and his wife were steps away from divorce!  This information NEVER gets easier for our ears, emotions or spiritual core.  He went on to explain details of what publically appeared as an excellent marriage. He confided the details of their marriage including the years of a lack of intimacy.

         What’s a guy to say? I mean, where did this start?  How did they get to this place in their lives, their homes…their marriage?!?!  Just as Mrs. Lotz has a three point approach to study, we need to find an approach that works with our spouses and with other couples.

         We must learn to ask questions.  There can be more than three, but these questions should be based on a friendship, and filled with humility and a hunger to bring Christ’s healing and forgiveness.

         As you build the friendship, there needs to be an agreement of accountability. Questions may include: Are you having Bible study daily?  What are you currently reading?  Have you been to a doctor lately?  How are your finances?

         Today, I encourage you to ask your friend some tough questions regarding their marriage.  Your questions could include:  How would you describe your marriage?  How would your spouse describe it? How often do you argue? Are you and your husband satisfied with your relationship?  How can I pray for your marriage?

         These questions aren’t meant to invade another’s relationship, it is meant to help keep our marriages in check.  Mrs. Lotz said that her approach to Bible study opened up worlds of enlightenment.  Asking questions of those we care about, can help encourage and expose things in their marriages that can ultimately lead to marriages that bring glory to our Father.

Proverbs 12: 15

The way of a fool seems right to him,

but a wise man listens to advice.