01-18-25

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
January 18, 2025
When confronted with self-doubt, the advice of simply believing in oneself can be somewhat ineffective. While the intention behind such advice may be sincere, individuals struggling with self-doubt have already been wrestling with the question. A skilled therapist can assist in uncovering the underlying reasons for this lack of confidence or feelings of self-doubt. However, this process may not always be straightforward or easy. Doubts around faith are equally difficult, but self-doubt and doubt in regard to religious beliefs are not the same. Yet I have met many people who have asked legitimate questions in regard to faith, the Bible, the existence of God, yet others have made these good questions into concerns that leave questioning people fearful. Doubts about some aspect of orthodox Christianity, for instance, are twisted into an existential crisis, often leaving a person with self-doubt. And when someone is struggling with self-doubt, this vulnerability can be seized upon by religion. What if Christianity celebrated doubts, questions, even hesitancy that were spoken out loud by people who felt confident in their value as human beings? What if the church fostered an environment where thoughtful reflections and honest confessions about uncertainty were permitted without fear of judgment or manipulation of people’s vulnerable state of mind? I think Jesus loves not only the doubter but the doubts, for doubts point to a faith that is active and being challenged by life. Doubts, within a healthy setting, can give rise to deeper insight and true conviction in regard to how one is to live in a very complicated world. One of the real gifts the church can offer is to continue to affirm a person’s worth and beloved status even in a moment when that person is questioning everything.

Thanks for loving and affirming me, O God of amazing grace and goodness, especially when I might even be doubting your existence. Even the most challenging questions do not hinder your capacity to be God. Amen.