How can we support others struggling with faith as seen in Luke 7:19? Recognizing Honest Doubt in Scripture “John summoned two of his disciples and sent them to the Lord, asking, ‘Are You the One who was to come, or should we look for someone else?’” (Luke 7:19) John the Baptist, a man who had boldly proclaimed Jesus as “the Lamb of God” (John 1:29), now sat in prison and battled uncertainty. Scripture records his struggle without rebuke, showing that temporary doubt can touch even the strongest believers. Jesus’ Model: Offer Clear Evidence of God’s Work • Jesus answered John’s messengers by pointing to present, visible acts of power and mercy (Luke 7:22). • He did not shame John; instead, He affirmed John’s earlier faith (Luke 7:28). Takeaway: Supporting a doubting believer begins with reminding them of what God is tangibly doing and of their past faithfulness. Practical Ways to Support Someone in Faith Struggle • Listen without shock or condemnation; let them voice concern openly (James 1:19). • Share eyewitness evidence of God’s activity—answers to prayer, testimonies, and Scripture fulfilled (Acts 14:27). • Point them to Jesus’ unchanging character: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). • Visit, write, or call regularly; presence counters isolation (2 Timothy 4:9-11). • Intercede persistently; stand in the gap like the friends who lowered the paralytic to Jesus (Luke 5:18-20). • Provide practical help—meals, transportation, finances—so earthly burdens do not drown spiritual focus (1 John 3:18). Scriptures to Share for Reassurance • Isaiah 35:4-6 – Prophecies Jesus fulfilled, mirroring Luke 7:22. • Psalm 73:26 – God remains the portion of a faltering heart. • 2 Timothy 2:13 – “If we are faithless, He remains faithful.” • Jude 24 – God’s power to keep believers from stumbling. A Call to Gentle Patience Galatians 6:2 urges, “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ”. Bearing with a doubter reflects Christ’s own compassion toward John. Offer truth, evidence, and steadfast love; the Holy Spirit uses such support to anchor wavering hearts back to confident faith. |
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