This is part of a 12-week series designed around some basic Christian disciplines that will propel you to spiritual growth!
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Here is the podcast above in a nutshell…
Welcome back to Beginnings where we are learning the basic disciplines of the faith. Congratulations! You have arrived at week 12 and have completed this foundational course. I hope it’s been a blessing to you.
But, before you go, let’s tackle one more important issue in the life of a believer: doubt.
Doubt is the unspoken bond of those who have faith, a commonality for every believer everywhere.
We keep it covered and hidden afraid others might know, but the truth is that doubt is one of the most typical human attributes you can name.
The world was astounded a few years ago when some of Mother Theresa’s letters expressed some moments of doubt… I was encouraged. I felt a little bit more like her!
A simple definition of doubt is to be uncertain about something.
It is not contradictory to have a strong faith that struggles with moments of doubt.
It seems that it would be nearly impossible never to experience doubt about something that requires faith. By its very nature, faith is going to invite some levels of doubt because it’s not about certainty or something that can be physically/scientifically proven.
It seems that it would be nearly impossible never to experience doubt about something that requires faith. By its very nature, faith is going to invite some levels of doubt because it’s not about certainty or something that can be physically/scientifically proven.
So, when it comes to doubt, you are not alone.
St. John of the Cross, one of our Christian forefathers, expressed the sentiment known as the “dark night (of the soul)” when describing a spiritual crisis on a journey towards union with God.
Everybody has one of those dark nights.
At the very least every believer experiences buyer’s remorse. You know that feeling that maybe you bit off more than you can chew. That if you had a do-over you might do it differently. After you bought that big car, new house, or even when you said,”I do.”
It’s natural to second-guess yourself when you’ve made a big decision.
So, how do we combat doubt. Proverbs 3:5-8 has some helpful tips for us:
- Lean on God – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.”
- Invite God into all arenas of your life – “In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
- Admit your weaknesses – “Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil.”
- Wait on Him – “It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.”
So, let’s get practical and real about what we should do when we experience doubt:
- Pray, and be honest with God.
- Confess it to a friend to pray with and encourage you.
- Seek comfort in the Bible.
Thank you so much for being a part of Beginnings, and make sure to check out the podcast for more details.
Seeking more of Him and less of me,
Andy Addis
Pastor, CrossPoint Church
John 3:30