There are moments in life when clarity disappears, insight is not forthcoming, and wisdom is nowhere to be found. As I write this, I’m feeling overwhelmed by things that I don’t understand. In times when the path ahead feels uncertain, and our hearts sit in utter confusion, scripture gives us a word for this: perplexed.
Mark 6:20 says,
“for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he kept him safe. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed, and yet he heard him gladly.” Mark 6:20 ESV
Here, perplexity was a mirror for Herod Antipas, revealing the tension between Truth and the choices we make. He heard John the Baptist speak, and though he didn’t fully respond in obedience, he couldn’t ignore what was stirring within him.
Speaking of the women at the empty tomb Luke 24:4 says,
“While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel.”
Luke 24:4 ESV
Here, the women stood confused, not yet understanding. Their perplexity was the doorway to revelation and God was about to show them something far greater than they imagined.
Even the disciples in John 13:22 experienced this inner uncertainty.
“The disciples looked at one another, uncertain of whom he spoke.” John 13:22 ESV
As Jesus spoke of betrayal, they looked at one another, perhaps searching their own hearts. This kind of confusion leads us inward, inviting humility and self-examination.
Perplexed is not the confusion of indifference or carelessness, no, it’s the honest condition of someone who cares deeply and doesn’t understand. Perhaps perplexity, then, is the beginning of faith?
When we feel at a loss, it may be because we’ve reached the edge of what we can control or understand. And that’s exactly where God begins to work in new ways. Perhaps the discomfort we feel is shaping a deeper trust, one that doesn’t rely on having all the answers.
Instead of rushing past the confusion, we must sit with it. Ask God what He might be revealing. Let our questions become prayers, and our uncertainty transform into openness.
We may not see clearly yet, but He will not abandon us in the unknown.
In moments when we feel perplexed and uncertain, may God remind us that He is not confused. May He teach us to trust even when we do not understand. And may our questions draw us closer to His truth, giving us peace as we wait, perplexed but not driven to despair.
*For those of you who prayer walk, take time to ponder the phrase ‘Let your questions become prayers’. For your copy of this week’s screensaver click here. And to access all of my YouVersion Bible App devotional plans click here.