How can we strengthen our faith when we experience doubt like the disciples? The Moment of Mixed Worship and Doubt “When they saw Him, they worshiped Him, but some doubted.” (Matthew 28:17) • The risen Jesus stands before His chosen witnesses. • Awe and uncertainty mingle in the same hearts. • The inspired record states the fact without apology, showing that momentary doubt does not disqualify a disciple. Why Doubt Shows Up, Even After We’ve Met the Savior • Limited human understanding collides with God’s limitless power (Luke 24:38). • Recent trauma can cloud perception; the cross was still fresh in their memories (John 20:19). • Spiritual warfare targets faith at critical turning points (Ephesians 6:16). • Expectations may not match God’s surprising methods (Acts 1:6–7). Faith-Building Actions Drawn From Scripture 1. Focus on Christ’s revealed Word – “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17) – Daily reading anchors feelings to unchanging truth. 2. Voice honest doubt to the Lord – “I do believe; help my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24) – Transparency invites divine help rather than condemnation. 3. Recall past works of God – “Remember the former things, those of long ago.” (Isaiah 46:9) – A gratitude list turns memory into a testimony. 4. Stay close to the fellowship of believers – “Encourage one another daily.” (Hebrews 3:13) – Shared stories of God’s faithfulness multiply courage. 5. Obey what you already know – “If anyone chooses to do His will, he will find out whether My teaching comes from God.” (John 7:17) – Obedience opens the door to deeper assurance. 6. Pray for increased faith – “The apostles said to the Lord, ‘Increase our faith!’” (Luke 17:5) – Asking aligns us with God’s desire to strengthen His children. 7. Test your faith through service – “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” (James 1:22) – Hands-on ministry turns doctrine into lived reality. Results Scripture Promises to the Persevering • A refined faith “more precious than gold” (1 Peter 1:6-7). • A stable mindset “kept in perfect peace” (Isaiah 26:3). • Power for witness fueled by confident conviction (Acts 4:31). • Joy that outweighs trials (Psalm 94:19; John 16:22). Living the Lesson Today • When doubt whispers, run toward Jesus, not away. • Feed faith with Scripture, fellowship, and obedience. • Expect God to honor even a trembling trust, just as He did on that Galilean mountain. |
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