“But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.” James 1:6–8
Have you ever been on a boat during a strong wind or storm? Most people who spend significant time on the water know that being caught in a storm out at sea can be a very scary experience. The wind can toss around the waves, along with your boat, violently.
Today’s verse says that we become tossed like that when we doubt God. Doubt is the opposite of faith. It says, “I don’t trust God. My experiences are too challenging. God must be against me.” Faith, on the other hand, says, “I will trust God no matter what challenges he takes me through. Because Jesus died and rose on my behalf, I know God is for me.” Which one of those statements sounds more stable to you?
The fact is, doubt just makes us unable to stand firm, and doubters become victims of their ever-changing circumstance. James is teaching us in this verse that a kind of faith that pushes back against doubt will make us strong and stable.
It’s easy to see that taking the path of faith is far more wise, productive, and life-giving.
Read
“And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” Hebrews 11:6
- Is it possible to please God? How? Name the conditions for pleasing him.
- In what ways do you need to trust God right now?
- How has God proven faithful in your life in the past? Shouldn’t that cause you to look to the future with faith?
Pray
Father, we are prone to wander away from you. Help our unbelief. Apart from you, we can do nothing. Forgive us and restore within us a right Spirit—one that loves to trust you no matter what is going on in our lives. We know this pleases you and forms godliness in us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
This devotion is adapted from the James Study Guide. Pick up a copy today for only $9.99. The Study Guide includes a 15-week curriculum, a small group study, a group inductive study, as well as 75 daily devotions for your personal or family worship.
This devotion is adapted from the James Study Guide. Pick up a copy today for only $9.99. The Study Guide includes a 15-week curriculum, a small group study, a group inductive study, as well as 75 daily devotions for your personal or family worship.
