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 has 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 shows that greater leadership is achieved by asking questions.

So, I thought today I would list some of the questions Bob and his leadership friends have asked. I think you’ll find they make great lead-ins to productive times with those who serve alongside 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?
  • How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you are?
  • 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?

These are interesting questions, and not ones with easy answers. Let me make a suggestion. Take one question each week 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. 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 see yourself in a new light…and may even challenge you to reorient yourself to become 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 remarkable culture. There, a Greek carving was found at the entrance to the temple of Apollo, bearing words attributed to Socrates, “Know Thyself.”

This phrase is a reminder that we need to understand our values, our guiding philosophy for life and work, and what is most critical to our daily living, bringing 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 so that it guides us in all areas of our lives.

Jesus used questions as he taught His disciples and other followers. In John’s account of Jesus’ teaching, he quotes the Lord as asking:

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 that you need to consider what it will take to be His disciple. Make an honest assessment of the facts and the 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 times?

God’s best,