Is it okay to have doubts about faith?
The Devotional Answer
Yes, it is absolutely okay to have doubts. Doubt is not the opposite of faith; it is often a sign of intellectual and spiritual honesty. The opposite of faith is unbelief (refusing to believe despite the evidence). Doubt, on the other hand, is a question you bring to God: "I want to believe, but I struggle with this."
The devotional answer is that God welcomes your honest questions. He is not threatened by your uncertainty. When you have doubts, it is an opportunity to dig deeper into the evidence and truth of Scripture. Use your doubt as a tool to fuel your search for a stronger, more informed faith, rather than letting it lead you away from the truth.
The Simple Answer
Doubt is a normal part of the Christian life, and the Bible proves it.
Doubt is Human: We live in a world where God's ultimate truth is not always visible, so it is natural to question things we cannot see or fully understand.
The Problem is the Response: It is not a sin to have a doubt, but it is dangerous to ignore a doubt or allow it to keep you isolated from God's truth.
The Key: When a doubt arises, take it directly to God and His Word.
The Deeper Dive
The Bible gives us examples of sincere believers who struggled with doubt, demonstrating God's patience and acceptance of their questions.
1. Thomas, the Doubter
One of Jesus’ own disciples, Thomas, famously refused to believe that Jesus had risen unless he could physically touch the scars on Jesus’ hands and side (John 20:25). Jesus did not condemn him; He showed up, offered the proof Thomas needed, and gently instructed him:
Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." — John 20:29 (ESV)
Jesus met Thomas right where he was, proving that honest questioning does not disqualify you from His presence.
2. The Father Seeking Healing
A father who brought his demon-possessed son to Jesus admitted his internal struggle:
"I believe; help my unbelief!" — Mark 9:24 (ESV)
This single sentence perfectly captures the Christian journey. We believe, but we are still human, and sometimes we need God to strengthen the very faith we possess. Jesus honored this father's honesty and granted the miracle.
3. Doubt as a Catalyst
For many believers, periods of doubt are the prelude to a stronger faith. When you are forced to re-examine what you believe and why you believe it, you move from merely inherited faith to personal, informed conviction.
God’s Assurance
God assures you that He is patient with your questions and that He is always the unchanging answer to your doubts.
"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him." — James 1:5 (ESV)
You are assured that God never scolds you for asking sincere questions; He invites them, promising to provide the wisdom and understanding you need.
Your Takeaway Thought
When doubt arises, don't hide it. Instead:
Pray: Be honest with God about your uncertainty.
Study: Dive into the Bible or credible Christian resources to find answers.
Talk: Share your struggle with a trusted pastor or mature Christian mentor.
Doubt is simply an unasked question. Turn your doubt into inquiry, and your faith will grow deeper and more resilient.
