Author John Ortberg writes that the skeptic is someone who says, “I’m going to suspend judgment. I’m not going to commit myself, because the demand for sufficient evidence has not yet been met.” I’ve been thinking a lot about doubt lately and what prompts a person to cross over the line of doubt to belief. I believe there are many hanging in suspended judgment, thinking, “Jesus might be who He says He is – the Son of God -or, He might not be so I’ll wait for further evidence.” Jesus claims are pretty clear. If you doubt that, read through the gospel of John.
This Sunday, I will be speaking on “What will it take for you to commit?” I need your help. Would you leave a comment and tell me what helped you cross over that line from doubt to belief? And, if you haven’t crossed that line yet, why not? Help me understand your doubts.
Please leave a comment here on this post. I’ll be drawing a name from those who leave comments and give a gift card to one lucky person.
7 Responses
Kaye H
What a great question. Jesus helped me cross that line from doubt to faith. I grew up in a home that was very “works” based. It seemed that the amount of love I received was based on how well I behaved or how good my grades were in school. I eventually believed that I had to perform well in order to be loved, and worse, if I performed poorly I couldn’t be loved. Please know that my parents loved me, and did the best they could for me. They taught me about Jesus, but I don’t think they understood how deep and accepting God’s love is. As an adult, I began to earnestly seek Him and ask if He really loved me for no other reason than because I am me. He gave me an amazing revelation of His love and literally sat on the sofa beside me, wrapped His arms around me, held me close and whispered into my soul how very much He loves me. Isn’t He wonderful? Love so amazing!
admin
Dear Kaye, Thank you so much for your authenticity! I think your story is common for many of us who grew up “performing” to be loved. I am so grateful that Jesus met you! His love is so amazing isn’t it? Blessings to you, Becky
beth b
Well. I’m struggling. The past year has been really tough and it seems my prayers go unanswered. I try to be patient — I know it’s God’s plan, not mine. But I’m losing hope.
admin
Oh Beth, It is so hard when you feel like God is silent. Thank you so much for your honesty! I will be praying that God re-kindles your hope and answers your prayers! Blessings to you, Becky
Kaye H
Beth, I wanted to share a word that I got this morning and needed to hear. I then came back and read your post and feel that this word is for you as well.
“Blessed are they who persevere under trial, because when they have stood the test, they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him” James 1:12
Blessings!
Rebecca Barlow Jordan
Becky, I was raised in a Christian home and was a PK. I made a commitment to Jesus at the tender age of 8. But years later when I was auditing some seminary classes as a young minister’s wife, I truly made Jesus Lord of my life. The simple Bible stories I had heard growing up turned to life-changing truths that impacted my life. From that point on, I knew there was no turning back. Even in difficult times and testings that seemed to stretch on, God has remained faithful. Now, if I am ever tempted to doubt, I rely on His track record, not mine. His is flawless! He is true to His Word. Maybe it was actually those testings He allowed that has kept my commitment strong–because it gave me a chance to test His promises! Even in my failures, I think, If such a perfect God of grace could love me, one so unlovely and imperfect, why would I not commit my life to Him?
admin
Thanks so much, Rebecca! Great words of wisdom and I think a great lesson when doubt hits – look back and remember how He has been faithful in the past. Thanks so much! Blessings and Hope,Becky