Are You Doubting?
“So the other disciples told him, ‘We have seen the Lord!’ But he [Thomas] said to them, ‘Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it.’” (John 20:25)
Most of us will face something in our lives that may cause us to doubt.
Have you been hoping and praying about something and doubt is creeping in?
Whether you are facing a health crisis, job struggle or personal relationship issue, we will experience doubts.
Ever hear the phrase “doubting Thomas”? You probably have. It comes from Thomas, one of Jesus’ disciples.
Thomas doubted.
Thomas is singled out in the Gospels because of his doubt.
Right after Jesus rose from the dead, He appears to some of the disciples, but Thomas wasn’t with them the first time. In John 20:25 it says, “So the other disciples told him, ‘We have seen the Lord!’ But he [Thomas] said to them, ‘Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it.'”
Eight days later, Jesus appears before His disciples again: “A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you!’ Then he said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.’ Thomas said to him, ‘My Lord and my God!’ Then Jesus told him, ‘Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed’ (John 20:26-29).
Here are some important lessons we can learn from Thomas. Thomas asked lots of questions. It’s important to ask questions. Thomas also talked about his doubts. Find someone you value and trust and talk about your doubts. Ask questions. Then, when you find the answers – accept them and act on them.
Jesus answered all of Thomas’ doubts. He knew Thomas’ weaknesses and God knows ours. He showed Thomas His scars. Thomas then believed, and became a passionate follower of Christ – and preached the Gospel in India.
Just as He was with Thomas, Jesus is with you as well and will answer your doubts.
Have faith and throw that doubt in the garbage!
God is alive and real. Stretch your faith. Hold on! God has great things in store for you. Believe.
James 1:6 says, “But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.”
Prayer: Father, thank You for Your kindness, Your patience, Your grace. You are so loving and are patient with us, even in the midst our doubts. Be with us today. Lord, fill us afresh today with Your Holy Spirit and encourage and strengthen us. Thank You for Your presence and that even though we may have doubts sometimes, You will never leave nor forsake us. Amen.
We hope this encourages you today! Praying for you that God will show up in mighty ways in your life. May the JOY of the Lord be your strength today.
-Christine Batchelder