OK…I’ve got a question for you. Actually, I have several questions for you. And I don’t have the answers. You do.

My friend Bob Tiede compiled a long list of some of the questions he has used as he has promoted the idea of leading with questions. As those in charge, we often fall into the trap of always giving directives and providing answers. Bob’s experience is that greater leadership is achieved by asking questions.

So I thought today I would list some of the questions Bob and some of his leadership friends have asked. I think you’ll find they are great lead-ins to productive times with those who serve with you. Here we go…

  • When was the last time you tried something new?
  • What gets you excited about life?
  • What life lesson did you learn the hard way?
  • What can you do today that you were not capable of a year ago?
  • If not now, then when?
  • Which activities make you lose track of time?
  • How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you are?
  • Which is worse, failing or never trying?
  • What has life taught you recently?
  • What lifts your spirits when life gets you down?What’s the one thing you’d like others to remember about you at the end of your life?
  • What small act of kindness were you once shown that you will never forget?
  • What are your top five personal values?
  • What is your number one goal for the next six months
  • What is your greatest challenge?

These are interesting questions, and not ones that have easy answers. Let me make a suggestion. Take one question each day for the next few weeks. Maybe in the morning at the start of your daily routine, sit down and ponder one of these probing questions. Write down the answer or the thoughts they elicit from you. It will be a good, life-building exercise.

Many times, we get so busy with life, work, family, and daily challenges that we fail to consider who we are and what drives us forward. These kinds of questions can help you get a new picture of yourself…and may even challenge you to reorient yourself to be all that the Lord intends for you to be.

Judy and I had the joy of living in Greece many years ago. We often traveled to Delphi and took in the beautiful ruins of that amazing culture. It was there that a Greek carving was found at the entry to the temple of Apollo with words attributed to Socrates, “Know Thyself.”

This phrase is a reminder that we need to understand our values, our driving philosophy of life and work, and what is most critical for our daily living that brings a sense of both joy and accomplishment. All good things.

Yet, as Christ-followers and those called by Him to serve His purpose, we need to go beyond the good philosophy of the day. We need to know and understand God’s Word in a way that it guides us in all areas of our life.

Jesus used questions as he taught his disciples and other followers. In John’s account of Jesus’ teaching, he quotes the Lord as asking, “For who would begin construction of a building without first calculating the cost to see if there is enough money to finish it?” (Luke 14:28 NLT) Jesus was saying you need to consider what it will take to be my disciple. Make an honest assessment of the facts and situation. Know yourself. Know the challenges you will face.

So, today…this week…take time to ask yourself these probing questions. And add this one to those I previously gave you.

  • Lord, what do I need to do today to effectively serve you in these important days?

God’s best…