Mark 9:19-21
In
a world filled with doubt, it can be hard to believe. Ever since Eve ate from
that fruit tree, doubt has been part of the human experience. And most often,
doubt has the upper hand over belief. Biblical belief is something we do every
day. But so is biblical doubt.
So
what is Biblical belief? It is not standing on the edge of a cliff, blindfolded
and being asked to jump off! It is trusting in the rock solid character of God.
We know of His faithfulness through seeing how He interacted with people down
through history. We know the promises He has made to His people. We know He is
with us today because of His Spirit that dwells within us.
Biblical
belief is more like the small child standing on the edge of the pool ready to
jump into their father’s arms. Dad has always been there to catch before. He is
strong and steady. I can see him standing there in the water. He is inviting me
to join him in the water. His arms are wide open and inviting. His bright smile
lets me know there is no danger. So I jump knowing he is there and he will keep
me safe.
Biblical
belief is about trusting something solid, known. It is not about wishful
thinking or the flipping of a coin. It is not a shot in the dark.
We
have this kind of belief every day. We trust that the architect knew what they
were doing when they designed the building we enter. If we didn’t trust them,
then we wouldn’t enter. We trust that the people in the cars around us are not homicidal
maniacs ready to use their vehicles to kill me.
But
each of us has Biblical doubt as well. We know the facts, but we let other
factors determine our choices. Our past history, their past history, or the lack
of history can all influence our choices. Often the pain of previous failures
keeps us from trying again.
So
when the man in the crowd tells Jesus about the disciple’s previous failures at
helping this boy, it is no wonder Jesus states the facts: they are an
unbelieving generation. But then again, so are we!
What
I find interesting is that the demon believes! As soon as this demon gets in
Jesus’ presence, it can’t take it. It believes that Jesus is the Messiah, the
promised hope for all mankind. He believes that Jesus presence spells his
long-overdue judgment, a judgment he has been told by Satan won’t happen.
So
next time you doubt, slow down and pay attention to what is driving you to
doubt. Is there a real reason to doubt, like actual danger, or is it a kneejerk
reaction based on something else? We all doubt, so don’t get too down on
yourself. Bring your doubt to the LORD and talk with Him about it.