Mercy for Doubters

Unbelief—doubting God’s Word—is an underlying cause of sin and it plagues everyone at times.

Thomas' doubt is a familiar story, but doubt is a deep-seated problem that affects every aspect of a Christian’s life. In an entirely different setting, Jesus did not rebuke the boy’s father who cried, “I believe, help me overcome my unbelief.” (Mk. 9:24b NIV) Is this not the cry of all human hearts at times?

After Jesus’ death, His disciples acknowledged and addressed problems stemming from unbelief. Verse 22 of the short book of Jude reads, Be merciful to those who doubt. . . . (NIV)

Honest doubters can become honest seekers. When we doubt, if we approach our struggles with open hearts, we can experience God’s mercy. He helps us face our doubt and leave it behind. Then we can turn to Him in faith.

Praise God for mercy.

Originally published July 22, 1983

People Who Love Him

Thomas had trouble believing Jesus was resurrected from the dead. When the other disciples insisted Jesus had appeared to them, Thomas declared, “Except I 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.” (Jn. 20:25b KJV)

A graphic statement of resistance and unbelief. And yet, Thomas loved Jesus and he couldn’t get past his desire to be with Jesus—he even wanted to be with the other disciples as all of them struggled to find their way in their strange new circumstances.

Jesus knew about Thomas’ statement of unbelief, but He also knew Thomas’ heart. And Jesus goes out of His way to reveal Himself to people who love Him.

When Jesus came to the group again, Thomas was present. Then Jesus spoke directly to Thomas. “Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side, and be not faithless, but believing.” (v. 27)

Thomas, emotionally overcome by the encounter, answered and said unto Him, “My Lord and my God.” (v. 28b) His unbelief was shattered by a Word from God.

Originally published May 12, 1989.
Picture: Roses, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2008. Photo by Solveig.