354 – Trust But Verify (Part II)

#faithbites #faithjourney Verify

You might remember that back in September I wrote a #faithbite entitled Trust But Verify. That message was about not bearing false witness and listening to find the truth when someone is accused of something. Today, I use the same title but for a different type of verification. Understanding what is the truth behind what is said.

If you asked anyone what my worst trait is, besides my temper sometimes, it would be that I am gullible and naive. I want to believe people. I’ve been scammed before,lied to, and taken advantage of. I know that about myself and try to overcome that through research.

I had a good friend of mine tell me that I couldn’t be a member of the Free Masons, that’s another long story and no I am not, because the LCMS says it conflicts with our beliefs. At first that didn’t make sense, so I did some digging. Then I talked to a good friend, who is well learned in our believes, and help me understand it a bit better. What I loved about the conversation was he didn’t sway me one way, he didn’t try to push his understanding, nor did he try to get me to behave one way or another. He did applaud me on taking the initiative to research this out and find the truth for myself.

I know some people believe everything 100% from the beginning and don’t need to do that research. For me, I have to listen, search, contemplate, and then I come to an understanding that helps strengthen my faith.

Scripture

• Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. – Hebrews 11:1
• But test everything; hold fast what is good. – 1 Thessalonians 5:21
• And have mercy on those who doubt; – Jude 1:22

Reflection

Many of us have heard the tale of Doubting Thomas (John 20:24-29). Thomas, one of the disciples was not there for the resurrection and didn’t believe that Jesus had come back. It wasn’t until he put his hands in Jesus’ side and into the holes in his hands that he believed.

What I love about this passage is Jesus doesn’t condemn Thomas for wanting proof. He doesn’t look down on him for doubting. He says that Thomas believes because he has seen, blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe.

For me, I believe in the word of God. I believe that Jesus died for me. Some of the issues I have, and where I research, is some modern day applications and church doctrine. Not scripture mind you, but how some have interpreted bits and pieces.

As I said earlier, I wish I could believe without “seeing” but in many times, the research that I do helps to solidify what I believe in. God has given me the gift to search and verify. I am thankful for that.

Charge

Have you ever thought of yourself as less of a believe because you wanted proof? Have you done research on a scripture or piece of church doctrine because you wanted to verify or know more? There is nothing wrong with that. You are using the gifts God gave you. Next time you have something you are unsure of, ask God. He will direct you where to find the answers.

Lord, allow me to always believe in you. Help me when I have doubts to find sources that verify what you have taught me. Give me the strength to know that my faith is strong and my research helps strengthen it daily.