Embracing Doubt: Why It's Okay to Ask Questions About Faith
Doubt can often be viewed as a negative force in matters of faith, but it serves a crucial role in the journey of faith. It encourages us to reflect critically about our beliefs and convictions. By embracing doubt, we can clarify our beliefs and understand what truly resonates with us on a personal level.
In a world where certainty is often valued, it can feel uncomfortable to ask questions—especially when it comes to faith. But, believe it or not, asking God questions is not a bad thing. It actually opens us up into a deeper relationship with God. It is not a weakness. Jesus Himself welcomed questions and used them as a way to teach, challenge, and draw people closer. Whether you're wrestling with doubts, seeking clarity, or simply curious, know this: it’s okay to ask questions. God isn’t afraid of them, and neither should we be.
“The beginning of wisdom is found in doubting; by doubting we come to the question, and by seeking we may come upon the truth. ”
God’s Invitation
God invites us into questioning. He asks us questions which opens the space for us to ask questions. His questions liberate us in our asking. The psalmists were strangely familiar with laying their sorrows and anger before Him:
“Why do You stand far away, Lord? Why do You hide Yourself in times of trouble?” (Ps. 10:1)
“How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?” (Ps. 13:1)
Questions open an invitation. It is an invitation for conversation–an invitation to understand more. When Jesus asks His disciples questions, He invites them to reflect on themselves. “In His questions, Jesus invites us into a relationship of giving and taking, of mutuality and reciprocity. He does not merely question us; He questions with us, speaking and listening to us as His friends (1).”
When Jesus entered the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is? He invited His disciples to reflect within themselves on this answer. They were invited to discover the truth about God and the truth about themselves. He invites us to do the same.
Doubt can lead us to a deeper faith experience.
There is a disciple who inherited the unfortunate name of ‘Doubting Thomas.’ It’s an unfortunate name. I feel for him though. Thomas was just being honest and real. He reveals the true importance of questioning. Thomas says, "Unless I see and touch the wounds from the spikes in his hands and touch the wound from the spear in his side, I will never believe (John 20:25).” Jesus teaches us three things from the example of Thomas.
Thomas is given an authentic testimony. His trusted friends share with him how Jesus is alive. Thomas didn’t see it for himself. But he can trust the testimony of his friends. We need to be surrounded by friends and such great testimony to confront any doubts that might surface.
Jesus gives us patience. He doesn’t condemn Thomas for his doubts. He understands. He gives him peace. Doubt is part of the Christian journey, and Jesus is patient with us every step of the way(2).
Jesus gives us His wounds. Jesus shows Thomas His wounds. Jesus was revealing that Thomas could do what he needs to do to know that Jesus is alive. Jesus was crushed for your iniquities. Because of this we ultimately trust in Jesus(2).
His doubting ultimately led to a declaration of deep belief. I entered a period of questioning during a dark season in my life. It was a season where I felt abandoned by God. I think we have all came across seasons like this. I talked my way through this painful, messy season of my life. I voiced prayers like: I just don’t understand. Why am I in this place? Why did you let me down, God?
Benefits of Questioning
Through it all, God was patient with me, and He met me in that place. It’s okay to be in a place of. questioning. Questioning can lead to renewed passion, a strengthened faith, and a more profound understanding of oneself and one’s beliefs. That’s what happened to me. When we take the time to explore our doubts, we often find answers that not only satisfy but also deepen the understanding of our beliefs. I think when we ask questions, God smiles at us because he takes so much delight in our desire to learn more.
Reflect on questions that you have always had about faith or God. Which of these questions have you wondered about frequently? If you feel comfortable answering, share your thoughts with us.
1 Anderson , Matthew Lee. “The Value of Asking Questions.” Bible to Life, 3 Oct. 2023, bibletolife.com/resources/articles/the-value-of-asking-questions/.
2 “3 Things Jesus Gives Us When We Doubt.” YouTube, uploaded by NorthStar Church, 5 Feb 2023, [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kiXWRMDyxwE]
