This week, I took part in a discussion about the concept of “doubt” and the role that it plays in our spiritual life. It’s not a word that we spend a lot of time discussing. However, we may spend a lot of time analyzing it and wondering why we have it. 

We may also be embarrassed to admit that we have doubt about God’s ability to deliver on all the He has promised. When things go wrong in our lives, and we ask God for a solution, but he doesn’t give an answer in the next instance, we doubt that God can provide relief. 

We may also think that it is wrong to doubt God’s role in our lives. We have been taught since childhood the various beliefs that we hold as true. It isn’t wrong to question those beliefs as we age and develop a history of different experiences which may test those beliefs. In fact, doubt may lead us to a stronger faith as we search out the answers that we need to test those beliefs. 

In doing this research, some of the childhood teachings may be relegated to the back seat, but the ones that survive will be stronger after the research for the fact that they have now become “yours.” They may even become beliefs that you would be willing to die for. Wow! 

Doubt comes and goes, even for those who followed Christ in person. Take Peter for example, one of my favorite apostles because of his very human nature. He wanted to be so good and so faithful. He tried, he doubted, and he failed. 

 Jesus called him to step out of the boat. He had no doubt as he went over the side. He walked across the lake to Jesus, his Rabbi. Then came doubt. He looked around and realized that he was walking on the water! Down he went like a stone. Calling out to Jesus, Christ extended his hand and saved him once again. “Why do you doubt, Peter?” asked the Lord. (Matt 14 22:33) 

I’m not sure that I could step out of the boat. I’ve tried walking on water, and I can’t do it. I also sink like a stone. Does this mean that my faith is less than it should be. No, it means that I am practicing my faith.  

Maybe the time will come when I can step out of the boat. Until that day, I am secure in the belief that God loves me unconditionally. Just like He loved Peter as he reached out to save him and just as he reaches out to save each and every one of his children. Grab His hand and drive away the doubt! God loves you unconditionally. 

Terri