Strengthen Faith
John 20:25 (ESV)
25 So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see in his hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into his side, I will never believe.”
We all know the story of Thomas and how he doubted the other disciples who claimed that they encountered Jesus after His crucifixion. Thomas’ doubt led to the coining of the phrase “doubting Thomas,” which is used to describe anyone who is a naysayer or a skeptic. Thomas needed physical evidence that Christ had returned. He demanded to see Him and would not believe unless he was able to place his finger in His nail holes and into His pierced side.
How often do people question the faithfulness of Yahweh when they cannot physically touch Him? Or question His purpose when they do not understand His plans or His actions? I recall many years ago when a close friend shared a miraculous physical healing he experienced. He shared the details and the amazing experience he had with God! On the outside, I rejoiced with him, but on the inside, I had some doubt. I was not there to witness what happened, and I question why God would do this for him and not others. This man is someone I trust and have known for some time. It revealed that this miracle was not just for him, but more so for me. He received physical healing, but I needed some spiritual growth.
Yahweh’s thoughts are greater than ours, and His ways are bigger than ours. I learned I was not doubting my friend, but Yahweh’s willingness and ability. So, as you start your day, consider your response and openness to Yahweh’s actions and miracles. When He moves in the life of another person, how do you respond, with faith or doubt? Faith in Yahweh is not just focused on His existence but also on the fact that He is a God of action. Do not allow extraordinary or improbable events to deter you, but allow them to instill and strengthen your faith!