> In the journey of faith, doubt is often perceived as a formidable adversary. Yet, when navigated with wisdom and patience, doubt can become a powerful ally in strengthening our relationship with God. This devotional explores the role of doubt in building up an individual’s Christian faith, offering insights from Scripture and wisdom from notable Christian leaders.
The Role of Doubt in Scripture
The Bible does not shy away from stories of doubt. One of the most compelling examples is found in the Gospel of John, where Thomas, one of the twelve disciples, expresses his doubts about Jesus’ resurrection (John 20:24-29). Thomas’ doubt is not met with rebuke but with an invitation from Jesus to come closer, to touch and see. Jesus’ response to Thomas is profound: “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (John 20:29, NIV). This moment teaches us that doubt, when brought to Jesus, can lead to a deeper, more resilient faith.
Reflecting on Historical Insights
Many Christian leaders and thinkers have wrestled with doubt and emerged with a fortified faith. C.S. Lewis, a beacon of Christian apologetics, once said, “Now faith, in the sense in which I am here using the word, is the art of holding on to things your reason has once accepted, in spite of your changing moods.” Lewis acknowledges that doubt is not the opposite of faith but a component of our human experience that can lead to a deeper understanding and commitment to our beliefs.
“Now faith, in the sense in which I am here using the word, is the art of holding on to things your reason has once accepted, in spite of your changing moods.”
C.S. Lewis
Similarly, Mother Teresa experienced profound periods of doubt and spiritual darkness, yet her faith remained unshaken. She wrote, “If I ever become a Saint—I will surely be one of ‘darkness.’ I will continually be absent from Heaven—to light the light of those in darkness on earth.” Her experience reminds us that even in our doubt, we can be a light to others, demonstrating that faith is not the absence of questioning but the presence of trust in spite of it.
Engaging with Reflective Questioning:
1. Can you recall a time when doubt led you to a deeper understanding or strengthening of your faith?
2. How can you bring your doubts to God in a way that invites His presence and guidance?
3. In what ways can your journey through doubt serve as a testimony to encourage others in their faith walk?
Closing
Doubt is not the enemy of faith but a signpost pointing us towards a deeper engagement with the divine. When we encounter doubt, let us remember that it is an invitation to draw closer to God, to ask questions, and to seek answers with an open heart. As we navigate the complexities of our faith journey, let us be encouraged by the words of Philip Yancey, “Doubt is the ants in the pants of faith. It keeps it awake and moving.”
May we embrace our doubts not as signs of weakness but as opportunities for growth. Let us approach God with our questions and uncertainties, trusting that He will meet us with open arms and guide us into a deeper, more resilient faith. Amen.
Share your insights about the way doubt has influenced your faith
What have you learned about this aspect of faith? How will you use what you have learned to grow your faith in the future? Leave a reply below:
