Doubt is a common human experience that can cloud our faith and leave us feeling uncertain and vulnerable. Yet, throughout the pages of the Bible, we find inspiring stories of individuals who faced doubt head-on and emerged with strengthened faith. In this blog post, we will delve into the lives of some biblical characters, drawing valuable lessons from their journeys of overcoming doubt with unwavering faith.
Abraham: Trusting in God's Promises Scripture: Genesis 15:6
"Abram believed the LORD, and he credited it to him as righteousness."
Abraham, known as the father of faith, was called by God to leave his homeland and journey to an unknown destination. Despite his advanced age and the apparent impossibility of having a child, Abraham believed in God's promises. Through his unwavering faith, he became the progenitor of a great nation. Abraham's story teaches us that even in moments of doubt, trusting in God's promises can lead to incredible blessings even if the path ahead isn't paved yet.
Moses: Embracing God's Plan
Scripture: Exodus 4:10-12
"Moses said to the LORD, 'Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue.' The LORD said to him, 'Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? Who gives them sight or makes them blind? Is it not I, the LORD? Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.'"
When God called Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, doubt consumed him. He felt inadequate and struggled with speaking, but God assured him of His divine guidance. Moses overcame his doubt by accepting God's plan and stepping into his role as a leader. His story reminds us that even when we doubt our abilities, God equips us for the tasks He assigns.
Peter: Walking on Water with Faith Scripture
Matthew 14:29-30
"Come," he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, 'Lord, save me!'"
In a remarkable act of faith, Peter stepped out of the boat to walk on water toward Jesus. Initially, his faith allowed him to do the impossible, but doubt crept in when he focused on the storm. Despite his brief falter, Jesus rescued him, teaching us the importance of keeping our eyes fixed on Him during moments of doubt. While this verse doesn't apply to today in terms that we'll be able to walk on water as Peter did, this account does inform us that with great faith, God can and will lead us to and through the unthinkable, which is more than we can handle on our own.
Thomas: From Doubt to Profound Belief
Scripture: John 20:27-28
"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!'"
Thomas, famously known as "Doubting Thomas," struggled to believe in Jesus' resurrection until he encountered the risen Christ. Jesus lovingly addressed his doubt and allowed Thomas to see and touch His wounds. Thomas' doubt transformed into a profound declaration of faith, exemplifying that encountering the risen Christ dispels doubt and strengthens belief.
Conclusion
The stories of Abraham, Moses, Peter, Thomas, and many others in the Bible show us that doubt is a natural part of the human experience, but it doesn't have to define our faith journey. By leaning on God's promises, embracing His plan, fixing our eyes on Jesus, and encountering Him personally, we can overcome doubt and cultivate unwavering faith. Just as these biblical characters discovered, doubt can lead us to a deeper and more profound belief in God's power and love. Let us draw inspiration from their journeys and walk boldly in faith, knowing that doubt can be the gateway to a stronger and more resilient relationship with our Heavenly Father.