Overcoming Doubt
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Opening Scripture:
“But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.”
– James 1:6 (NIV)
Devotional Reflection:
Doubt is something we all face at times. Whether it's doubt in God’s promises, doubt in ourselves, or doubt in the circumstances we’re facing, it can leave us feeling unstable and uncertain. James 1:6 paints a vivid picture of what doubt does—it makes us like a wave tossed by the wind, never finding steady ground. That’s exactly how doubt feels—shaky, unpredictable, and exhausting.
But what’s comforting is that this verse also gives us a solution: belief. When we ask something of God, we are called to believe that He is able to provide and that His promises are sure. This isn’t about forcing ourselves to have perfect faith; rather, it’s about continually redirecting our hearts toward trust, even in the midst of uncertainty. Faith is choosing to believe in God’s character and His Word, even when doubt tries to creep in.
Doubt recently crept at my door. I found myself focusing more on a difficult family situation than on trusting God and His promises. I was emotionally and spiritually drained, wrestling with anger and frustration, questioning why I had to suffer for so long. In the midst of this pain, I cried out to the Lord in song.
The song "Faithful" by Elevation Worship became my anthem in this season. As I sang, something began to shift. The bridge of the song broke me down in the most vulnerable way. The repetitive declaration, "Oh God, my Father, how great… great is Your faithfulness," brought me to an uncontrollable cry, so deep I could no longer sing the words. It wasn’t just the song itself—it was the truth behind it. I took my focus off my situation and how bad it seemed, and turned it to God and how good He is.
I had doubted that God would change my situation, but I realized that He was doing something even greater—He was changing me. He was working in my heart, building the strength I needed to glorify Him, even in the hardest moments.
Personal Application:
Doubt will come, but how we respond to it makes all the difference. Here are some practical steps for overcoming doubt and strengthening your faith:
- Remind Yourself of God’s Faithfulness: Look back on moments when God has been faithful to you in the past. These memories can strengthen your faith for the present.
- Stand Firm on God’s Word: When doubt creeps in, combat it with the truth of scripture. Memorizing verses that affirm God’s promises helps you hold onto truth, even when emotions tell you otherwise.
- Surround Yourself with Encouragement: Doubt can feel isolating, but it’s important to be surrounded by people who will speak life and truth into your situation. Whether it’s a friend, a pastor, or a trusted mentor, let others support you in faith.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for being faithful, even when our faith wavers. Help us to overcome doubt by trusting in Your promises and remembering that You are always in control. Strengthen our faith, and remind us of Your goodness, even in the face of uncertainty. Thank You for being patient with us when we doubt, and for calling us to a deeper trust in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Keep The Faith Going:
Are you struggling with doubt today? Don’t be afraid to bring it to God in prayer. He can handle your questions and uncertainties. Share your experience in the comments below or on social media with the hashtag #UpliftKingdom. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey of faith, and God is always faithful. And if you need a tangible reminder of God’s provision, check out all products in the store at https://hashtaguplift.com/collections/frontpage
Other Encouraging Blog Posts:
Hope In The Lord: https://hashtaguplift.com/blogs/strength-in-christ/hope-in-the-lord-psalm-31-24
God's Provision: https://hashtaguplift.com/blogs/strength-in-christ/gods-provision-philippians-4-19