Slipping Away

Scripture:
Luke 7:18-28 (NIV)

John’s disciples told him about all these things. Calling two of them, he sent them to the Lord to ask, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?”

When the men came to Jesus, they said, “John the Baptist sent us to you to ask, ‘Are you the one who is 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 cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor. Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.”

After John’s messengers left, Jesus began to speak to the crowd about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swayed by the wind? If not, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in fine clothes? No, those who wear expensive clothes and indulge in luxury are in palaces. But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is the one about whom it is written:

“‘I will send my messenger ahead of you, 

     who will prepare your way before you.’ 

I tell you, among those born of women there is no one greater than John; yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.”

Devotional:

Doubt can cloud our minds from time to time.  Everyone doubts something sooner or later.  I recently purchased a trimmer, weed eater.  I had no doubt it would start when I first got it.  After the second use though I doubted it would ever start again.  I had to send it in the shop for repairs.  There is nothing wrong with doubting God from time to time either.  After all John the Baptist, who Jesus said there was no one greater than him, even doubted before his execution.  

There is no sin in doubting.  It is what you do because of your doubt that matters.  Jesus didn’t criticize or condemn John for his doubt.  Instead He gave praise and honored John.  We do not have to worry about God forsaking, or leaving us just because we showed doubt.  When in doubt take reassurance that Christ is with you.  Rely fully upon the Holy Spirit and trust in Jesus.  Blind faith can see you through your doubt.  Seek to relieve your doubt through scriptures and prayer.  Allow God to bring someone into your life to help you through any doubts you might have.  Look around and see His presence in all you do.  Soon you will find all doubts slipping away.  If you doubt, question.  Then look for your answers in scripture.  Seek out fellowship with other Christians.  Most importantly though, pray.  Talk to God; share your doubts with Him. Believe it or not God understands…