Doubts (1)
2021-04-07John 20:25 NIV
Thomas wasn’t there when Jesus first appeared to His disciples after the resurrection. And like many of us, other people’s experiences weren’t good enough for Thomas – he had to have his own. And Jesus made sure he got it. He didn’t put Thomas down for having doubts. Jesus understood that any question coming from an honest heart isn’t a sceptical question; it’s a search for truth.
The Bible tells us: ‘A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them…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 into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”‘ (John 26-28 NIV).
There are two important things we can learn from this story: 1) Our doubts can lead us to a new level of faith. When our world falls apart, when the pain of our circumstances seems unbearable, when some shattering event happens and doubt begins, don’t deny it – acknowledge it. Times of doubt become times of learning when our doubts lead us to ask God for answers. As we work our way through them, we can reach a new level of faith.
2) Our doubts can lead us to a deeper relationship with Jesus. The testimonies and experiences of others will only take us so far; ultimately, we each need our own personal experience with God. As soon as Thomas experienced Jesus for himself, his faith was instantly strengthened. We shouldn’t be ashamed to have doubts; instead we should take those doubts to God and let Him use them to build our faith.