Devotionals

Scripture Reading: James 1:5-6

Two biblical examples of doubt stand out above all others. One is Zacharias; the other is Thomas. Their stories reveal to us the principles of doubting that can make a great difference in our walk with God.

Zacharias doubted the message the angel brought to him from God. God promised to give Zacharias and Elizabeth a child, but Zacharias failed to believe God’s promise. Immediately, Zacharias was made unable to speak because of his doubt. Thomas, on the other hand, received no “punishment” for his failure to believe the other disciples when they told him the Savior lived. What made Thomas’ doubt differ from Zacharias’?

First, Thomas’ doubt was a learning experience for him; it was part of his growth. Zacharias’ doubt was simply a lack of faith in God’s power to do that which seemed impossible. Second, Thomas’ doubt was a temporary doubt based on what he had heard from man. Zacharias had been praying for a child for many years, and he had allowed himself to become so rooted in doubt about God’s ability or desire to answer his prayer that he didn’t believe even though God sent an angel to give him the good news. Thomas had learned not to put his trust in man alone. Thomas’ doubt was more of a need for divine reassurance than a lack of belief.

Doubting is safe as long as we allow it to be a learning process. When in doubt, we should go to God for assurance, just like Thomas did. Don’t let yourself dwell in doubt like Zacharias did. Today’s Scripture text says, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering.” Seek God’s will and rest in it!

Satan’s tactic is for you to have a sense of failure because of your doubts. If he can get your attention directed toward your failure rather than the lesson God wants to teach you then he has accomplished his task. You see, Satan wants you to become more like Zacharias in your doubts. He wants you to direct your desires toward other things besides God’s will and plan for your life. Therefore, he will tell you lie and make you believe them. He will make you doubt God’s voice, just like Zacharias did, and then God will be forced to chasten (correct or discipline) you because of your unbelief. Hebrews 12:6 says, “For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.”

You can read more on "The Principle of Doubting" in Dr. Brenda Robinson's "A New Desire Workbook" Day 4 of Dealing with Doubt

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• Posted by: Dr. Brenda Robinson