In every human heart lurks a shadow of doubt. The Puritan theologian Thomas Ridgley captured this well when he said, "There is a great deal of atheism in our hearts; by reason of which we are prone sometimes to call in question the being, perfections, and providence of God. The devil also frequently injects atheistic thoughts into our minds; which are a great affliction to us, and render it necessary that we should use all possible means for our being established in this great truth."
This encapsulates the struggle believers often face—the tension between faith and doubt. Yet, God has not left us to grapple with these questions alone. He has revealed Himself to us, providing a foundation for our faith that can withstand the storms of doubt and skepticism.
How Has God Made Himself Known?
1. The Light of Nature
Romans 1:19–20 says, "For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse."
Hebrews 3:4 teaches us "every house is built by someone and the builder of all things is God."
Acts 17:28 adds, "for 'In him we live and move and have our being'; as even some of your own poets have said, 'For we are indeed his offspring.'"
Psalm 19:1–3 declares, "The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words, whose voice is not heard."
Creation reveals the necessity of God as the unmoved Mover or First Cause that brings about all things that have a beginning.
Creation reveals the necessity of God to sustain the universe for it is in him we live, move, and have our being.
Creation reveals the mind of God as we see the incredible design around us.
Creation reveals the beauty of God as we marvel at the heavens and earth.
Creation reveals the love God has for his people as we enjoy his continued providence.
2. The Light of the Word
1 Corinthians 2:9–10 explains, "But, as it is written, 'What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him'— these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God."
1 Corinthians 1:20–21 challenges, "Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe."
2 Timothy 3:15–17 reminds us, "and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work."
Isaiah 59:21 reassures, "'And as for me, this is my covenant with them,' says the Lord: 'My Spirit that is upon you, and my words that I have put in your mouth, shall not depart out of your mouth, or out of the mouth of your offspring, or out of the mouth of your children's offspring,' says the Lord, 'from this time forth and forevermore.'"
How Then Shall We Live?
1. Worldview in the Presence of God
First, we must shift our perspective. Imagine the world as a vast stage. We often get caught up in the immediate drama, the daily routines, and fleeting anxieties. But what if we saw ourselves as actors in a much grander play, one directed by a loving and all-powerful God? (1 Chron 28:9). This shift in perspective, placing ourselves in God's presence, changes everything. Our decisions and actions take on new significance.
2. Ask, "How Does God See This?"
This new perspective leads us to a crucial question: How does God see this situation? The Bible is a rich tapestry of God's instructions for navigating life. When faced with a tough choice, a moral dilemma, or even a seemingly mundane decision, we can turn to Scripture for guidance (Ps 119:105). Is it a decision that reflects God's character—His love, justice, and compassion? This practice of seeking God's perspective transforms our decision-making process.
3. Remember that God is Here
Living in God's presence doesn't mean He's a distant observer. The Bible assures us He is ever-present, a constant companion (Ps 139:7–8). Imagine a close friend walking beside you through life, offering support and encouragement. This is the essence of God's presence. He is the source of our strength, the one who lifts us up when we stumble and celebrates our victories.
4. Seek God's Revealed Will in All Things
But how do we discern God's will in the complexities of daily life? The Bible is our roadmap, God's revealed will for humanity. It provides principles and teachings that guide our choices (2 Tim 3:16–17). Prayer is also essential. As we approach God with open hearts, He guides us through subtle nudges, answered prayers, and a growing sense of peace about a particular path.
5. Know that God is in Control and Will Achieve His Purposes
Life can be unpredictable, filled with unexpected twists and turns. Yet, the Bible assures us that God is ultimately in control (Rom 8:28). He has a purpose for our lives, even in the midst of challenges. This doesn't mean He orchestrates every detail, but that He works through the circumstances of our lives to bring about His good plans. Understanding this allows us to face challenges with faith and trust, knowing that God is producing a series, even when we can't understand a single scene.
Living with God in mind isn't only about following a set of divinely given commandments. Living with God is about a relationship composed of daily conversations with God, constant adoration and submissive awareness of his presence, and a willingness to seek his guidance. It's about living this life, not just for ourselves, but as part of a grander story, a story ultimately authored by a loving and all-powerful God, the story of God's glory.
Living with Doubts and Evidence
God in his boundless love has not left us fumbling for answers. He has made Himself known, in the splendor of creation and through His magnificent truths in Scripture. The intricate design of the universe, from the swirling galaxies to the delicate balance of ecosystems on Earth, shouts the truth of a magnificent Creator. It's a message so clear, so undeniable, that the Apostle Paul declares those who deny God are "without excuse" (Romans 1:20).
However, God's desire to communicate did not stop at these marvels. In nature and conscience, we learn much about the Creator. God, however, spoke to us in other ways. He communicated directly through his word, the Bible. It is not only God's self-disclosure regarding who he is that he gave us this holy book, but it also contains his plans for humanity. The form is also not to be overlooked. God presents himself to us through the word. His message includes his love, justice, and faithfulness.
By studying this Scripture and opening our eyes to the wonderful Designer of creation, we can silence the whispers of doubt and embrace the reality of God. His presence becomes a tangible force in our lives not just a comforting idea. This understanding helps replace doubt with awe and uncertainty with the conviction of God's existence and his love for us.
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