2007-12-28 - Embracing Doubt

Luke 7:18-35

When the men came to Jesus, they said, "John the Baptist sent us to you to ask, 'Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone else?'" At that very time, Jesus cured many who had diseases, sicknesses and evil spirits, and gave sight to many who were blind. So he replied to the messengers, "Go back and report to John what you have seen and heard: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor. Blessed is the man who does not fall away on account of me." (Verses 20-23 NIV)

Why did John the Baptist doubt? He wasn't an ordinary man. An angelic messenger announced his birth, he was Jesus' cousin, and John had a powerful ministry. The prophet was called to tell others about the Lord. His words struck a chord with people, and they confessed their sins and were baptized. John had these Godly connections, and yet he still doubted.

The Bible doesn't tell us why John was full of uncertainty. Neither does the Gospel passage offer us ways to avoid disbelief, nor are we told of John's reaction to Jesus' response. It does, however, give us clues on what we can do when a suspicion enters our mind.

• Ask God. When John the Baptist wondered if Jesus was truly the Messiah, he asked the Lord. He didn't stew with his thoughts - or take them as fact. John wasn't afraid to ask God, and neither should we.

• God Answered. Jesus was receptive to John the Baptist's question. He didn't get angry or offended that John asked, or that he doubted. The Lord provided hope and then publicly praised John the Baptist and his ministry.

The next time we are in doubt, we can confidently talk to God about our concerns. He won't judge or ridicule; He will give us straight answers and reassurance.

Lisa

lisa@cfdevotionals.org

http://www.cfdevotionals.org
http://www.postapraise.com