Hi Visionaries, and welcome to the new year!
A fresh start, a new beginning, and yet, if we’re honest, some of the same struggles remain. Maybe one of those struggles is doubt—that nagging question: Why do I still doubt? If I love Jesus, if I’ve seen Him work in my life, why do I still wrestle with uncertainty?
First, you are not alone. Doubt is something even the greatest men and women of faith have faced. When John the Baptist—yes, the same John who baptized Jesus and saw the heavens open—was in prison, he sent his disciples to ask, “Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another?” (Matthew 11:3). Even John had a moment where he wondered.
Why Do We Doubt?
Doubt often creeps in when we face uncertainty, hardship, or when God’s promises seem delayed. Think of Peter walking on water—he was doing the impossible, focused on Jesus, but the moment he looked at the wind and the waves, fear replaced faith and he began to sink (Matthew 14:28-31). Sound familiar? Life’s storms make us take our eyes off Jesus, and suddenly, doubt rushes in.
Another reason we doubt is because of our human nature. Thomas, one of Jesus’ own disciples, said, “Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe” (John 20:25). He needed physical proof. But Jesus met him with grace, saying, “Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed” (John 20:29).
How Can We Trust Jesus Even When We Doubt?
1. Look Back at What He’s Already Done
When Israel faced a crisis, God often reminded them of their past deliverance: “I am the Lord thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt” (Psalm 81:10). Reflect on the times He’s come through for you. Write them down, keep a journal, and remind yourself that the same God who was faithful then is faithful now.
2. Speak the Truth Over Your Feelings
Faith isn’t the absence of doubt; it’s choosing to trust God despite it. When doubts creep in, fight them with Scripture:
- “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5).
- “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1).
- “Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief” (Mark 9:24). It’s okay to admit when you struggle—Jesus is ready to help!
3. Spend Time with Jesus Daily
Just like a close relationship with a friend builds trust, so does spending time with God. Reading His Word, praying, and worshiping strengthen your faith. Jesus invites us: “Abide in me, and I in you” (John 15:4).
4. Surround Yourself with Faith-Filled People
When you’re struggling, who do you turn to? Surround yourself with people who will remind you of God’s goodness and truth. Hebrews 10:25 tells us not to neglect gathering with other believers because we strengthen one another.
Doubt Doesn’t Disqualify You
If you’ve wrestled with doubt, don’t feel condemned. God isn’t intimidated by your questions. Instead, He invites you closer. Even after Peter sank in the water, Jesus immediately reached out and saved him (Matthew 14:31). Your doubts don’t push Jesus away; they invite His grace.
So this year, as we step forward into the unknown, let’s trust Him more. Even when we can’t see the way, Jesus is still leading.
And remember, a visionary mind nurtures a creative spirit. Let your vision guide you, keep your mission organized, and always keep creating. Until next time, stay visionary.
