Curiosity is a natural and powerful force that drives us to learn, explore, and grow. For Christians, cultivating a holy curiosity—one that aligns with God’s will and purposes—can deepen our faith and enrich our lives. The Bible provides ample guidance on what kinds of things we should be curious about, and other authentic Christian sources can help illuminate these principles further.
1. Curiosity About God’s Word
First and foremost, Christians should be deeply curious about God’s Word. The Bible is our primary source of truth and guidance, and we are called to study it diligently. Psalm 119:105 declares, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” This verse highlights the importance of the Bible in guiding our steps and illuminating our understanding of God’s will.
Moreover, 2 Timothy 3:16-17 reminds us, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” Our curiosity about the scriptures should drive us to seek a deeper understanding of God’s teachings and how they apply to our lives.
2. Curiosity About God’s Creation
God’s creation is vast and intricate, filled with wonders that reflect His glory and creativity. Psalm 19:1 tells us, “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.” By being curious about nature and the universe, we can gain a greater appreciation for the Creator.
Saint Augustine once said, “People travel to wonder at the height of the mountains, at the huge waves of the seas, at the long courses of the rivers, at the vast compass of the ocean, at the circular motion of the stars, and yet they pass by themselves without wondering.” This insight urges us to be curious not only about the external world but also about the intricacies of our own existence and how we are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14).
3. Curiosity About God’s Plans and Purposes
Understanding God’s plans and purposes for our lives is a journey that requires active seeking and curiosity. Jeremiah 29:11 offers reassurance: “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” Being curious about our divine purpose encourages us to seek God’s guidance in prayer and through His Word.
In Proverbs 3:5-6, we are instructed, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Our curiosity about God’s plans should lead us to a posture of trust and acknowledgment of His sovereignty in our lives.
4. Curiosity About Spiritual Growth
Christianity is a journey of continual growth and transformation. Hebrews 6:1 exhorts us, “Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God.” This verse encourages a curiosity that seeks to move beyond elementary teachings and grow in maturity.
The writings of spiritual giants like C.S. Lewis and Dallas Willard can also spark our curiosity about deepening our spiritual lives. Willard, in his book The Spirit of the Disciplines, emphasizes the importance of spiritual disciplines in transforming us into the likeness of Christ. Our curiosity should drive us to explore practices such as prayer, fasting, study, and service, which foster spiritual growth.
5. Curiosity About Loving and Serving Others
Jesus’ commandment to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:39) compels us to be curious about the needs and well-being of those around us. Philippians 2:4 advises, “Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.” This verse encourages us to cultivate a curiosity that leads to empathy, compassion, and action.
Mother Teresa’s life exemplifies this kind of holy curiosity. Her deep concern for the poorest of the poor drove her to serve tirelessly, seeing Christ in everyone she encountered. We, too, should be curious about how we can better serve and love others in our communities and beyond.
6. Curiosity About Eternity
Finally, Christians should be curious about eternity. Ecclesiastes 3:11 states, “He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.” This verse reflects our innate curiosity about the eternal and the divine.
In John 14:2-3, Jesus assures us, “In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” Our curiosity about eternity should inspire hope and a deeper longing for our future home with God.
Conclusion
Holy curiosity is a powerful tool for Christians, guiding us to seek deeper knowledge and understanding of God, His creation, His plans, our spiritual growth, our service to others, and our eternal destiny. By aligning our curiosity with God’s Word and His purposes, we can grow in faith, wisdom, and love, becoming more like Christ and fulfilling our divine calling. Let us embrace a holy curiosity, allowing it to lead us into a richer, more profound relationship with our Creator and Savior.
The Message Bearer, Cornelius Bella
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