Doubt is something we all experience in our life. For instance, there have been times I have doubted my salvation and if God even hears me when I pray. Even those who have been followers of Christ for many years still struggle with doubt. For some, doubt is a hurdle to overcome, while others would say it’s essential for life and should never be discouraged. So, is doubt ever healthy? Is it something we should lean into? Let’s look at scripture.
James 1:5-8 tells us, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.”
Those are some tough words to swallow. You’re saying I can’t doubt at all or else I’m double-minded and unstable? That sounds a bit harsh. Why does God not want us to doubt Him? Because doubt can lead to unbelief and sin, and Jesus is the Savior of the world and wants to supply our every need. God wants us to be confident in Him and experience everything He has to offer.
So, how should we respond to doubt? My favorite response to doubt is in Mark 9, when Jesus is approached by a man whose son is being tormented by an evil spirit. After the man explains what is happening with his boy and asks for help, Jesus assures him that “everything is possible for one who believes.” “Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, ‘I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!’” Beautiful. We are going to have doubts, no doubt about it. Our faith isn’t perfect, but we can call out to the One who is full of mercy and grace, and the perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2).
How do we overcome doubt and have faith? First and foremost, we have to be in the Word. “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17). How do we know we can trust God if we don’t know about His character, the things He desires, and what He’s done for you and me? Second, we need to be around God’s people; mature christians that are growing. It’s so much easier to have faith when we see how God has been faithful to others. Third, we need to pray and submit to God’s Spirit. God isn’t scared of your doubt, doesn’t love you any less when you do, and wants us to come to Him with our questions. He rewards those who earnestly seek Him (Hebrews 11:6).
God has proven time and time again that He is faithful, trustworthy, and nothing is impossible for Him. That’s why we can have confidence even in the things we cannot see (Hebrews 11:1). So, when trials come and doubt creeps into your mind, and it causes you anxiety, stress, or tempts you to sin, ask yourself a few questions: Am I in God’s Word? Am I surrounded by God’s people and sharing my burdens with them? Am I praying and submitting to the Holy Spirit?
Evan Gomez
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