This week, we’ve explored the spiritual practice of Scripture reading. Today’s tip: follow the confusion and frustration. Over the years, I’ve discovered that one of the most powerful ways to engage with Scripture and follow the Spirit’s work is to pay attention to what confuses, confounds, or catalyzes something in you.

It’s easy to approach the Bible with familiar eyes, skimming over passages we’ve heard explained or even sanitized by well-meaning preachers. But here’s the insight: if a text feels confusing or even offensive, don’t brush it aside. That reaction might be God’s invitation to pause, linger, and wrestle. Transformation often begins in those moments of tension. Some of the most profound insights I’ve gained came from grappling with a text I didn’t like but eventually learned to love.

Another challenge is the loss of wonder. Stories like Mary’s encounter with the angel can lose their weight because we’ve heard them so often. Don’t let that happen. Allow the shock of these stories to surprise you again. It’s often in the startling, raw edges of a text that deeper meaning emerges.

Take today’s passage. Read it slowly and ask yourself: How would I feel if I were John? How might Jesus have felt in that moment? What frustrates you? Do you wish Jesus had responded differently? Why is this story here? Sit with those questions. Let them hover over you today and tomorrow. Bring your confusion and frustration to God and ask for His insight.

You may be surprised by how He meets you there, offering new, living nutrition from His Word.

Matthew 11:2-4 When John, who was in prison, heard about the deeds of the Messiah, he sent his disciples to ask him, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?”

Matthew 11:4-6 Jesus replied, “Go back and report to John what you hear and see: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor. Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.”

by Aaron Bjorklund