"Questioning doesn’t weaken our faith; it strengthens it, leading us to a deeper understanding of God and His truth. As Scripture encourages, 'Test everything; hold fast what is good' (1 Thessalonians 5:21). By confronting our doubts, we allow our faith to grow mature and unshakeable."
The ability to reason is a profound gift, enabling us to examine our thoughts, confront our beliefs, and pursue truth. One of the most powerful tools we possess is the ability to ask questions. Questions don’t weaken faith; rather, they strengthen it, leading us closer to understanding. Whatever doubts or challenges you face, remember: you’re not alone—many have wrestled with similar questions, and each moment of questioning can pave the way for growth and maturity.
Facing Doubts and Strengthening Belief
Some argue that the presence of evil, pain, suffering, or sorrow is proof that God doesn’t exist. But in seeking answers to these questions, we mature in our faith. Doubts will arise, challenging our beliefs and prompting us to ask if God is truly good, if He has a purpose for our lives, or if we really have His Spirit. Doubting doesn’t make us weak; it makes us human. What matters is how we respond to these doubts.
Scripture itself encourages us to examine everything carefully. For example, in Acts 16, the Apostle Paul discerned the spirit behind a woman practicing divination, showing us that questioning is vital to our spiritual clarity. It’s natural to doubt our path, to wonder if God is real, or if we’re on the right track. Some ignore these questions, but those who confront them often emerge with a strengthened, unshakeable faith.
The Experience of Faith through Reason
Life’s challenges and uncertainties often bring us to moments of doubt, but the key is to first understand what’s happening within us. Even great figures in the Bible—Abraham, Moses, David, Habakkuk, and yes, even Jesus—faced questions and intense trials. Our human nature and overwhelming experiences may sometimes make the enemy appear more powerful than God, but this is a distortion, not reality.
I’ve personally found myself listening to debates, lectures, and arguments from atheists, only to return to a fundamental question: If there is no God, how did we come to exist? Evolution and scientific theories like the Big Bang offer glimpses, but they fall short of explaining the complexities of life and consciousness. Through reasoning, I’ve come to see the flaws in these limited perspectives.
Building a Foundation of Faith
I encourage you to reflect deeply and ask: Why do I believe in Jesus? Why do I trust in God’s existence? How am I confident that I am serving Him? Allow yourself the freedom to explore these questions, and even write down your answers. This practice will help you build a strong, personal foundation of faith.
Don’t be afraid to question your beliefs. There will come a time when life or others will challenge them, and if you haven’t settled these questions within yourself, you might falter. Faith isn’t just about following religious traditions; it’s about cultivating a genuine, personal relationship with God.
Faith that Stands Firm and Engages the World
Remember, Jesus loves you unconditionally, even when you’re searching or struggling. He died for you long before you accepted Him, and He patiently guides you, even in times of doubt. Ask yourself: How do I make a reasoned case for my faith? How do I share the gospel in my daily life, especially in my career?
In any field, whether as a lawyer, teacher, scientist, or artist, you’re called to be a thinker who questions, learns, and stands firm. Faith is not a blind leap; it’s a journey grounded in evidence, relationship, and truth. Stand firm, and use the power of reason to make your faith an unshakable light to the world.
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