Under The Circumstances, Part 3: For Those Who Doubt // Andy Stanley
Nov 5, 2023
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Addressing difficult seasons in life, struggles, frustrations, doubts, and faith. Reflecting on the story of John the Baptist and his doubts. Trusting God in adversity and finding hope. The role of a restore mentor in restoring faith.
Doubts and questions are a natural part of faith, and it is possible to continue trusting and following God, even when answers are elusive.
Trusting God and finding hope and purpose in faith can bring strength and resilience, even in the face of unanswered prayers and unexplained circumstances.
Deep dives
Doubts and questions are part of the journey
In this podcast episode, the speaker addresses the challenge of navigating seasons of doubt and difficulty. He acknowledges that life can be overwhelming with various hardships, such as relationship struggles, job dissatisfaction, medical crises, and mental health issues. He emphasizes that in these moments, it is common to question why others seem more blessed and why God's presence may feel distant. The speaker validates the frustration and confusion that arises when people offer simplistic platitudes or dismissive responses, and he acknowledges the pain caused by unresolvable circumstances. He encourages listeners to understand that doubts and questions are a natural part of faith, and that God still loves and cares for them, even in the midst of their struggles. He reminds them that they are not alone in their doubts, and that it is possible to continue trusting and following God, even when answers are elusive.
The story of John the Baptist illustrates doubt and faith
The speaker shares the story of John the Baptist to illustrate the presence of doubt and faith within the narrative of Christianity. He explains that John, who was highly regarded and referred to as the greatest man born of women by Jesus himself, found himself in prison despite his righteousness and commitment to speaking truth. Over time, John's faith began to waver as he questioned why Jesus did not rescue him and seemed to work miracles for others. In response, John sent his disciples to ask Jesus if he was truly the one they had been waiting for. Jesus responded by performing miraculous signs and then addressing the crowd, assuring them that doubts and stumbling do not need to lead to abandoning faith. He clarifies that doubts and questions are normal, and that blessed are those who do not stumble in the face of unanswered prayers and unexplained circumstances.
Trusting through unanswered prayers and unexplained circumstances
The speaker highlights the importance of trusting God even in the face of unanswered prayers and unexplained circumstances. He shares the story of a woman named Marianne, who went through significant challenges in her life, including the loss of her daughter and husband. Despite these hardships, Marianne became a beacon of strength and hope for others. The speaker acknowledges that it can be difficult to understand why God does not always intervene in the way we expect or desire. However, he reassures listeners that God's love and presence are still available, even in the midst of pain and confusion. He encourages them to continue following Jesus, bringing their doubts and questions with them, as they navigate the uncertainties of life. He affirms that even though they may not have all the answers, they can find hope and purpose in their faith.
Prayer and hope for those under the circumstances
In closing, the speaker invites Marianne Jones, an 86-year-old volunteer at North Point Community Church, to share a heartfelt prayer for those feeling buried under the weight of their circumstances. Marianne emphasizes God's ability to turn brokenness into joy and urges listeners to trust in His love and guidance. She encourages them to find meaning in their struggles and recognize the support and love that can come from others. She encourages them to shift their perspective from being owners of their lives to being stewards of the time they have on earth. Marianne's prayer offers a message of hope and comfort for those grappling with challenges and seeking strength in their faith.
