I preface many things by saying “if we would be honest with ourselves”. True honesty will propel us forward. It recognizes the need to change and embraces the positive solution. I this today because I am asking again for honesty.
I we are honest with ourselves, we must admit that we all struggle with unbelief. Even the disciples had some “issues” of unbelief. In Luke 9:38-40, they tried to cast out a demon from a boy and could not. The response of Jesus was to state the reality of unbelief in the hearts of the disciples. “”O unbelieving and perverse generation,” Jesus replied, “how long shall I stay with you and put up with you?” ” (Luke 9:41, NIV) Jesus then cast out the demon.
As Christians we do not want to admit even to ourselves that we struggle with unbelief. We place the blame for our difficulties on the devil, on others, on God even. Very rarely do we take responsibility for our unbelief.
Unbelief is easy to identify. It will be found in the places you struggle. Unbelief is the doorway to spiritual warfare. Your victory is set upon the sure and certain Word of God. Unbelief seeks to destroy confidence and trust in God.
Look at the promises of believing. “If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” ” (Matthew 21:22, NIV) “”I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. ” (Mark 11:23, NIV) “Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” ” (Matthew 19:26, NIV)
Dealing with unbelief means acknowledging first that it exists. I think of the father who said ” “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” ” (Mark 9:24, NIV) When we are honest, and we seek God with honesty, the road opens for the blessings and promises of God.
Do you believe that God loves you? If not, tell Him, “I struggle believing Your love for me”.
Do you believe that God WILL heal you? If not, tell Him, “I struggle believing You are willing to heal me.”
Honesty paves the way for belief. Belief paves the way to receive.
