The Greek verb distazo (διστάζω) is used in the New Testament to define a condition of doubt or skepticism, often in the context of faith or belief. Needless to say, most have experienced doubt in one form or another.
Doubt or uncertainty can freeze us in our tracks if left unchecked. When a situation arises where doubt obstructs our path we can lose confidence and and second-guess ourselves. Naturally, we shouldn't just run headlong into unknown situations.
That option may only serve to make things worse! Humanity, in general, yearns for certainty and truth. We don't like vagueness and unreliability. Doubt reminds us that life is not perfect, is painful, and can cause negative outcomes.
The solution for doubt, whether one is a new believer or seasoned follower of Jesus Christ, is faith. It cannot be acquired through hopeful optimism, or advice from well-meant friends. Faith is received only by hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17).
It's understandable in that to have faith in God we must be familiar with what He has said about it. He provided us with his Word as both a testimony and a reason to trust Him today (Psalm 77:11).
Scripture indicates that doubt is destructive and detrimental to our lives (Matthew 14:32-33). But we, as believers, have guidance and support when it comes to dealing with doubt in our lives.
When we have grasped what God has accomplished before, what He has assured us for the present time, and what we can look forward to, we are able to act with confidence and optimism rather than doubt.
Scripture: Proverbs 3:5-8; John 20:29; Hebrews 11:1; James 1:6; Jude 1:22
Prayer: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)
May God richly bless you,
~Eve
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