From the Desk of the Pastor

May. 5, 2013

Dealing with Doubt

The disciple Thomas is often remembered as “Doubting Thomas.” He was a doubter, but his doubts had a purpose- he wanted to know the truth. Thomas did not idolize his doubts; he gladly believed when given reasons to do so. He expressed his doubts fully and had them answered completely. Doubting was only his way of responding, not his way of life.

Although our glimpses of Thomas are brief, his character comes through with consistency. He struggled to be faithful to what he knew, despite what he felt. At one point, when it was plain to everyone that Jesus’ life was in danger, only Thomas put into words what most were feeling: “Let’s go, too-and die with Jesus” (John 11:16). He didn’t hesitate to follow Jesus.

We don’t know why he was absent when Christ first appeared to the other disciples after the resurrection, but he was reluctant to believe. Not even 10 close friends were enough to convince him!

Doubt isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Doubt encourages rethinking. Its purpose is more to sharpen the mind than change it. Doubt can be use to pose the question, get an answer, and push for a decision. But doubt was never meant to be a permanent condition. Doubt is one foot lifted, poised to step forward or backward. There is no motion until the foot comes down.

When you experience doubt, take encouragement from Thomas. He didn’t stay in his doubt, but allowed Jesus to bring him to belief. Take encouragement also from the fact that countless followers of Christ have struggled with doubts. The answers God gave them may help you too. Don’t settle into doubts, but move on from them to decision and belief. Find

Praying God’s Best for You,

Pastor Bryan