Lead Like Jesus: Curiosity

October 04, 2025

Bible Readings

  • Exodus 3:1-12
  • Acts 17:10-12
  • John 3:1-17
5-Day Devotional – Holy Curiosity

Lead Like Jesus — Curiosity

A 5-day devotional exploring holy curiosity as a way to listen, wonder, and create space for God’s Spirit to work.

Day 1 — Curiosity vs. Certainty John 3:16–17

📖 Scripture: John 3:16–17
“Curiosity, at its core, is the opposite of judgment and certainty.”
Curiosity isn’t weakness—it’s openness. In Nicodemus’ late-night questions, Jesus revealed God’s love for the whole world. Curiosity makes room for grace and turns rigid certainty into deeper faith.
  • Where do I tend to replace curiosity with quick certainty?
  • How might curiosity help me receive John 3:16–17 anew?
Practice: Begin one conversation today with “I’m curious about…”

Day 2 — Nicodemus: From Fear to Trust John 3:1–5, 9–10

📖 Scripture: John 3:1–5, 9–10, 13–17; John 7:50–51
“Curiosity took Nicodemus from fear of what others would think, to confident trust in God.”
Nicodemus began curious but afraid. Curiosity gave way to courage—defending Jesus before peers, then honoring him at burial. Holy curiosity matures into bold trust.
  • What hidden questions do I carry that God is inviting into the light?
  • What would “confident trust” look like this week?

Day 3 — At the Well: Curiosity Restores John 4:7–30

📖 Scripture: John 4:13–14, 25–26, 28–30
“Jesus both leads with, and welcomes in others, holy curiosity.”
The Samaritan woman’s curiosity drew her into new life. Jesus honored her questions, restored her dignity, and her story brought others to believe. Curiosity can heal and reconnect communities.
  • Where do I need to listen longer before speaking?
  • How can I frame my questions as invitations to connection, not arguments?

Day 4 — Thomas: Honest Questions, Deeper Faith John 20:24–29

📖 Scripture: John 20:24–29
“True curiosity stems from a desire to know someone’s full and authentic self.”
Thomas wasn’t shamed for asking; Jesus met him there. Honest questions can lead to the boldest confession: “My Lord and my God.” Holy curiosity draws us closer to Christ.
  • What honest question do I need to bring before Jesus today?
  • Whose “full and authentic self” do I need to honor with listening?

Day 5 — Practicing a Curious Life Proverbs 4:7

📖 Scripture: Proverbs 4:7
“We are not asked to have all of the answers; just an open heart.”
Curiosity is a habit that nurtures wisdom. Curiosity is a practice the grows joy. To say “I wonder…” is to admit space for growth and God’s work. This posture reshapes relationships, churches, and culture.
  • Which phrase could I try today: “I wonder…,” “I’m curious about…,” or “Tell me more…”?
  • Where do I sense the Spirit inviting me to slow down and listen?
  • Where can I exercise child-like wonder to cultivate more joy and gratitude in my life?
Practice: In one conversation today, aim for a 2:1 ratio of listening to speaking.

Prepared for Good Shepherd Lutheran Church • Lead Like Jesus series — Curiosity