The Danger of Doubt

(Day 5 of our 8-day study, The Struggle, on the armor of God)

By Katie Gibson

“Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation, the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of what [we] do not see…” (Hebrews 11:1 Amplified).

I scribbled these words on the decorative chalkboard, hanging over my kitchen sink, where I knew I would see it over and over again throughout my day.


We were in the final stages of closing on a new home when, much to our discouragement, several challenges presented themselves at the last minute.

I could feel the onslaught of doubt aiming straight for my vulnerable heart.

Fear threatened to consume every thread of faith woven by God’s faithfulness, prior.


The temptation was to cry,
Sit back and have a “Woe is me,” pity party, expecting the worst,
Raise my fist at God shouting, “I thought you promised!”
Or resort to dishonesty in order to work out a “miracle” on our own.


But, much to God’s glory (in spite of my weakness), I didn’t do any of these things. 


Instead, I scribbled those words; I texted them to my husband; I posted them on my social media accounts; and I circled them in my Bible. 


Instead, I chose truth.
I chose trust.
I chose faith.

Since the beginning of time, Satan has used the same mode of attack to get us off track, time after time. This tactic is doubt, and it is why Paul implores us to “hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil” (Ephesians 6:16).

These dangerous arrows call into question: God’s truth, His existence, His goodness, His faithfulness— the very essence of who He is.


Let’s look at a few ways faith conquers doubt:

1. Faith reminds us that God is good, His intentions are purse, and His promises are true (Psalm 18:30).

Trust is the very foundation of every relationship. If we do not trust God, we cannot be in relationship with Him (Hebrews 11:6). While doubt calls into question God’s good will towards us, faith reminds us He is faithful.


2. Faith makes us fearless (2 Timothy 1:7).

When we trust God’s ability and faithfulness, we are free to experience the abundant life He has for us, instead of cowering in fear, caused by doubt.


3. Faith helps us resist temptation by reminding us that God’s way is perfect, and He is working things out for our good and His glory (Romans 8:28).

When we question whether God’s way really is the best way, we often choose to go our own way. There are countless examples of this throughout the Bible, including Abraham and Isaac (Genesis 18), The Israelites in the desert (Exodus), and even King David (2 Samuel 11).

Faith protects us from getting off track because we learn to trust God’s plan above our own.


Jesus himself said, “Anything is possible for one who believes” (Mark 9:23)… words that, I’m sure, shake Satan to his core.

Is it any wonder why faith is his primary target?

In the quest for God’s best, we must continuously recognize the “fiery arrows” of doubt that seek to slow us down, and get us off track. Today, let’s hold our shields of faith close and ready to raise up in response to any attacks of doubt from the enemy.


Takeaway:
Satan uses doubt to get us off track from God’s best. We must raise our shield of faith, in response!


Memorize:
“God's way is perfect. All the LORD's promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to him for protection.” Psalm 18:30


Application:

1.     Take a moment to recognize any “arrows” of doubt you’ve allowed to stick in your life that have led you off track.

2.     Dig into the word and find a verse or two to combat these lies. (i.e. If you’re struggling with trusting God in finances, you might write: “…My God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus” Philippians 4:19).


Prayer:
Father, thank you for opening my eyes to see the tactics of the enemy. I ask that you will point out any areas where I’ve allowed arrows of doubt to stick, in my life. Help me to be ready to raise the shield of faith in response to any attacks that come my way, in the future. Thank you that, with faith, all things are possible. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

---