“When you hear about it, investigate the matter thoroughly.”—Deuteronomy 17:4 NLT

For many, Sherlock Holmes has been an inspiration even though he was a fictional character invented by Arthur Conan Doyle. Through his creation of Holmes, Doyle, a physician, introduced many new ways of approaching police work. Even as a fictional character, Holmes was the first to use ballistics and detect poisons. He examined the evidence and looked for clues even in places that may not have seemed obvious. Holmes stressed the importance of observation and looking beyond what appeared on the surface. He dug deep into the background. In similar ways, the Bible encourages us not to go through life blindly, but to pay attention. Don’t just listen to rumors or speculation, but investigate matters thoroughly. This was a central feature of the Law, where God stressed that conclusions were not to be finalized without ample evidence. They were to “investigate the matter thoroughly.” God encourages us to study our own hearts and minds, our habits and actions. We are to test what we do and “examine our ways” (Lamentations 3:40 NKJV). Throughout this process, we are called to stay focused on God, trust His Word, pray that He would open our eyes (Psalm 119:18), and diligently study His Word (2 Timothy 2:15). Seek to be a diligent student of God’s Word. Be sensitive to the Spirit’s leading. Don’t jump to conclusions, but practice investigating matters thoroughly.

Reflection Question: What do you need to spend time investigating?