Check Your Punctuation

“Would you take out the trash?”

“No.”

“Why not?”

“I’m busy right now.”

“Well, you need to get unbusy and take out the trash…now. I’m not going to ask you again.”

This parental statement cracks me up. Maybe you shouldn’t ask in the first place. Think about it. When we ask a question, we want – and expect – an answer. When we state a command, we want – and expect – a response. They look similar, but they’re different. Ask a question, and the answer might be no. If you know you’re expecting a response by behavior, eliminate the possibility of a no. Transform

the question into a command. Or, if you think the word command sounds too strong, perhaps you like statement of instruction better.

I’m not going to ask you again actually means I’m not going to tell you again.

If you’re asking and truly want an answer, you’ll likely ask again and again. The question might be reworded, but the question mark on the end doesn’t change. Know what punctuation you’re using.

What’s one question you’ve asked repeatedly but haven’t received an answer?

Why do you want an answer?

We ask question for a variety of reasons. Yes, we want an answer, but sometimes we want a piece of information, and other times we’re seeking broader understanding. Sometimes it’s more about comfort than understanding. And sometimes we’re checking in with someone to make sure the person understands.

Yes, everyone who asks will receive. Everyone who searches will find. And everyone who knocks will have the door opened. Matthew 7:8

You might not receive what you expect in the timing you want to receive it, but when you put a question mark at the end of a thought and approach God with it, you’ll receive. Focus less on the content and the details and more on the relationship you’re receiving. And be aware of the punctuation you’re using. Take a refresher course in grammar. Take out a red pen and check yourself. Mark corrections where your question marks, exclamation points, and commas are being misused.

Susan Lawrence is passionate about equipping and encouraging women through writing and speaking. She’s the author of two Bible studies, Pure Purpose and Pure Emotion. She loves dark chocolate and long walks, especially when her toes are in sand! Check out Susan’s words of encouragement and send her a note at her blog or on Facebook.

Susan Lawrence

Susan Lawrence is passionate about pouring into women and loves to equip and encourage them – as individuals and teams – through writing, speaking, and training. She’s in her sweet spot when she’s inspiring women to seek God’s purpose for their lives, growing in purposeful and healthy ways. As a Women’s Ministry Consultant, Susan equips women in leadership to meet the needs of other women while balancing their own needs. She's written three Bible studies: Pure Purpose, Pure Emotion and Pure Growth, as well as Farm Days, a collection of memories from her childhood growing up on the family farm in central Illinois. (Studies are available through Amazon, BN.com, and www.PurePurpose.org.) In addition to being involved in local women’s ministry for many years, she’s developed and edited resources and coordinated trainings and networking for international ministries and denominations. Susan also works with individuals to assess writing goals and edits books and resources in preparation to meet those goals. Susan lives with in central Illinois with her husband of over twenty years. They have two daughters in college. Susan loves dark chocolate and long walks, especially when her toes are in sand! You can follow Susan on her blog, Facebook, and Twitter. One of Susan’s favorite verses is Hebrews 10:24: "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. She loves that God gives her opportunities to live out his will in her life every day!"

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