James 1:6: But Let Him Ask In Faith, With No Doubting

James 1:6
[6] 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. (ESV)

Faith is a word that is used and misused all the time. We describe someone as having faith. Yet, it is important for that faith to be related to an object. If someone says that they have faith, the logical question would be, "Faith in what?" In this verse James is referring to faith in the divine character and goodness of God. A proper understanding of God's nature is the object of our faith.

If we doubt we are showing that we have a fundamental lack or mistrust of God's character and nature. It is also important to note where the source of this mistrust comes. Satan himself loves to instill doubt in our hearts. In particular, he loves to instill doubt concerning the innate goodness of God's divine nature.

Have you ever been in the midst of a trial and you find yourself questioning why a good God would allow you to go through the depths of darkness you are in? Perhaps you are even perplexed that you would think that way. This is not uncommon for the believer. This is the work of the enemy. Even the great Charles Spurgeon, known as the Prince of Preachers in his day struggled this way. He said:

"I must confess here, with sorrow, that I have seasons of despondency and depression of spirit, which I trust none of you are called to suffer, and at such times I have doubted my interest in Christ, my calling my election, my perseverance, my Savior’s blood, and my Father’s love."
- Charles Spurgeon

Doubt is a dangerous weapon. It echoes the slithering serpent of the Garden. It says, "Did God really say?" It says "Did God really save you?" "Does God really love you?" "Does God really have a purpose for you in all of this?" Friend, God does love you. He does have a purpose. He does not revoke his salvation. Have faith in his goodness. Do not doubt.

If you are doubting today ask the Lord to help your unbelief. He will answer that prayer just like the man in Mark 9:24 who said, "I believe. Help my unbelief." Jesus always answers that prayer.

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