“Finding Comfort in the Storms of Doubt: How Struggles Shape Our Faith”

 

Have you ever felt like you’re in a rough patch in your relationship with God, as if there’s something holding you back that you can’t seem to get past?  Perhaps you’ve even wondered if it’s time to give up on your faith altogether.

If you’re wrestling with your faith right now, then you’re likely carrying a lot of heavy thoughts and feelings.  You might be asking questions like, “Is God really there?” or “Does He truly care about me?”   As you think about the future, it’s natural to worry that past struggles might continue to keep you from embracing God’s promises.

I know how easy it is to get stuck in the past, worrying that our failures might just repeat themselves. That kind of thinking, however, can paint a pretty bleak picture of the future.  But it’s important to remember that projecting those fears forward doesn’t actually help us weather these storms of faith.

These fears, in turn, can really hold us back, making it hard to move forward with trust and confidence.  Therefore, it’s essential to remind ourselves that God has always been there for us and will continue to be present in every step of our journey.

Sometimes, it’s hard not to feel guilty or ashamed for having doubts.  I’ve faced my share of anxiety, fear, and uncertainty.  Big questions about life’s purpose or why suffering happens can feel overwhelming.  And, wondering if God hears and answers our prayers can add to the confusion.

All of this can feel like a heavy burden, and, as a result, it’s tough to know how to deal with it.

Feeling disconnected from God can be really hard and even a bit scary.  It’s not uncommon, especially during these times, to pull away from things like church services, prayer, Bible reading, or prayer groups when you’re struggling.  It’s as though those important parts of your faith get pushed to the side.

Sometimes, people might even turn to unhealthy behaviors to cope, behaviors that clash with their beliefs.  I remember a time, during my heavy drinking period, when I was “church hopping,” trying to find the “right answers”, but all it did was add to my confusion and anxiety.  What a mess I was.  Thanks, Jesus for your saving grace.

Struggling with faith can stir up a mix of intense emotions—anxiety and fear from uncertainty, sadness and despair from feeling disconnected, and maybe even anger, either at God or at yourself for not resolving your doubts.  It can be lonely, especially if you feel you can’t share your struggles with others.  The confusion and inner turmoil, consequently, can be exhausting and isolating.

But, I hope that, with the following suggestions and Bible verses, you find some comfort and peace to support you in strengthening your journey with God.

 

Weathering the Storm

 

To begin with, start by gently acknowledging any disillusionment, embarrassment, or shame you’re experiencing.  Sometimes, just recognizing these feelings can, in fact, bring a sense of relief.  As Psalm 139:23-24 says, “Investigate my life, O God, find out everything about me; Cross-examine and test me, get a clear picture of what I’m about; See for yourself whether I’ve done anything wrong—then guide me on the road to eternal life.” (The Message)

Next, take a moment to reflect on why you might be feeling this way.  Is it because of something you think you should be doing, or is it influenced by what others expect from you?  Perhaps you feel like God wants you to experience these emotions.  Understanding the source of these feelings is, indeed, a crucial step in addressing them.  Proverbs 4:7 reminds us, “Wisdom is the most valuable commodity—so buy it! Revelation-knowledge is what you need—so invest in it!(TPT)

Moreover, remember that many people go through periods of struggle with their faith.  It’s a normal part of the journey, even if it feels overwhelming right now.  Psalm 73:26 offers comfort: “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” (NASB)

Additionally, don’t be hard on yourself.  Faith isn’t about being perfect, and God understands what you’re going through.  Therefore, give yourself grace.  As Romans 8:1 assures us, “With the arrival of Jesus, the Messiah, that fateful dilemma is resolved. Those who enter into Christ’s being-here-for-us no longer have to live under a continuous, low-lying black cloud.” (The Message)  Be gentle with yourself—cut yourself some slack and avoid being your harshest critic.

Furthermore, opening up to a friend, a spiritual mentor, or a counselor can be incredibly helpful. Having someone to listen can make you feel less isolated.  Don’t keep everything bottled up and expect your struggles to vanish on their own.  For instance, I’ve found immense support from my weekly Band of Brothers, who listen, counsel, and pray with me.  Galatians 6:2 encourages us, “Love empowers us to fulfill the law of the Anointed One as we carry each other’s troubles.” (TPT)

Even when it’s tempting to pull away, try to stay connected to your community.  They can remind you that you’re not alone and offer valuable support.  As Hebrews 10:24-25 says, “and let’s consider how to encourage one another in love and good deeds, not abandoning our own meeting together, as is the habit of some people, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” (NASB)

Similarly, you don’t need to have all the answers or a flawless faith.  It’s okay to doubt and question. Embrace your humanity, make your mistakes, and lean into the guidance Jesus offers.  As 2 Corinthians 12:9 reminds us, “And He has said to me, My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.” (NASB)

In addition, try to view your struggles as part of your growth process.  Difficult times can lead to deeper understanding and a stronger faith.  Romans 5:3-4 tells us, “There’s more to come: We continue to shout our praise even when we’re hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us, and how that patience in turn forges the tempered steel of virtue, keeping us alert for whatever God will do next.” (The Message)

The Bible, likewise, is full of stories of people who faced faith struggles and emerged stronger.  These stories remind us that our struggles are part of a larger journey.  Reading Hebrews 11, for example, can inspire and encourage you. This chapter speaks of heroes of faith who faced doubts and challenges but remained steadfast.

Keep praying and seeking God, even when it’s hard.  You don’t need to have everything figured out first.  As He assures us in Philippians 4:6-7, Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and pleading with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (NASB)

Healing and finding peace with your faith struggles takes time, and that’s perfectly okay.  Therefore, be patient with yourself.  Psalm 27:14 encourages us, “Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.” (KJV)

Finally, if your struggles are deeply impacting your daily life, it might be helpful to talk to a therapist who understands spiritual issues.  Proverbs 11:14 says, “Where there is no guidance the people fall, But in an abundance of counselors there is victory.” (NASB)

Remember, struggling with your faith is a natural part of spiritual growth.  By acknowledging your feelings, seeking support, and being kind to yourself, you’ll navigate through this and emerge stronger.  As you lament and bring your difficulties to God, remember the Psalms, where King David expressed his deepest fears and struggles.  Psalm 13:1-2 captures this beautifully: “How long, O Lord? Will You forget me forever?  How long will You hide Your face from me?  How long must I take counsel in my soul, Having sorrow in my heart day after day? How long will my enemy exalt himself and triumph over me?” (AMP)

May you find the compassion and grace of a loving God touching your heart deeply.

 

 

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