The Path to Christian Faith: From Doubt to Devotion

^{Woman tapped on the shoulder by man to guide her path to Christian faith | Photo by RDNE Stock project}

Doubt is a valid feeling that’s a common obstacle in your path to Christian faith. You can’t ask if it’s okay to feel that way because, again, it’s an emotion. It’s not something you need permission for. But we can manage our doubts and turn them into devotion, little by little.

Understanding Doubt and Its Role in Christian Faith

Aside from it being an expression of emotion, doubt is also a phase. It’s a normal part of your Christian faith journey. When you need help, Yareni Beltran wrote the book, “Building Bridges: Made in His Image,” just for you. Her book walks you through her personal, inspirational journey with Jesus. Hear her inspiring stories of faith firsthand. Get a copy on your preferred order site, and may it guide you on your way to Christian faith.

Going back, doubt can spring from many different factors that prompt us—believers—to confront uncertainties by asking questions and seeking deeper understanding. But doubts don’t oppose faith; they rather deepen it. Remember, doubt is a ladder, not a home. Your doubts lead the path to a deeper relationship with God.

What are the types of doubt in the Christian faith?

Many may think that doubt is sin. The truth is, it’s not. But in some degrees, it can be a temptation to sin. Telling others or yourself to stop doubting won’t help. It’s something that cannot go away easily. As we begin to unravel the ways to overcome it, let’s first try to identify the types of doubt in the Christian faith.

Intellectual Doubt

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”
– Proverbs 3:5 New International Version (NIV) –

Also known as the doubt of the mind, intellectual doubt is a common dilemma among believers like me and you, even individuals who are new to faith. When we face intellectual doubts, we seek logical answers to spiritual questions. More often than not, we hear questions like, “If God and His Son were true, can you give me concrete evidence of their existence?”

Some speculate that Christ’s miracles were only a work of science; others contest these are rather works of sorcery. Are you one of them?

At some point in our lives, we do encounter these questions in our minds. However, let’s not forget that some aspects of faith surpass human understanding, which requires trust and patience. This is why Proverbs 3:5 encourages us to believe and trust in God beyond human logic.

Emotional Doubt

“Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me?”
– Psalm 42:11 –

There is another form of doubt that questions sincerity and births distrust. “Doubt of the heart,” or emotional doubt, is the type of doubt that comes without regard for intellect or fact. Along our path to Christian faith, we question the sincerity of Christ’s goodness. There comes a time when we question His act of forgiveness of our sins. This emotional doubt stems from the feeling of sadness, fear, or anxiety.

Please know that this feeling is valid. Expressing emotional doubt is an honest response to difficult emotions, not a sign of a weak Christian faith. In Psalm 42:11, we appreciate David’s honesty in his feelings. He did not pretend to be fine and brought his troubled heart to God. This reminds us that faith can persist even when emotions are unsteady.

Moral Doubt

“For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing.”
– Romans 7:15 –

Because of our imperfect nature, we commit mortal sins again and again. Our sins bring forth moral doubts, which can provoke the feelings of guilt, shame, and unworthiness. Sometimes we wonder, “Are we truly forgiven?”

Brothers and sisters, do not forget that God’s grace applies even to anyone who faces moral struggles. Like Paul in Romans 7:15, we also face an inner conflict as we commit actions that don’t align with our beliefs. But by acknowledging our moral shortcomings and through honest confession, we can get back on track.

May this be a reminder that even in moments of moral struggles, God does not exclude us. His grace is earned not by deeds. His grace is showered upon us freely through faith. Christ’s sacrifice has already saved us from our sins and the power of shame and guilt with it.

Developing a Strong Foundation of Faith

As we walk the path of faith, we encounter obstacles that challenge our devotion. While on the journey, we face doubts that pull us away from our Savior.

But we can overcome them.  

Strengthen your faith through the scripture.

The Bible reveals God’s character and His plans for humankind. Reading through the Bible gives us the answers to life’s questions. The answer we get will provide us the strength to face challenges from the perspective of truth. Use these as the elements for creating a sturdy bridge of faith.

On second note, don’t just memorize the Bible. Read it with your heart.

Begin by praying consistently.

As you read through the Bible, reflect. And with hands closed, head bowed, speak your deepest intentions to Christ. Open your heart and soul to the Lord. Seek guidance and heed His voice. Make this a daily habit.

Build a community of believers for support.

Find your circle. Surround yourself with people who possess unbreakable devotion to the Lord. They have learned the truth and are willing to share it with you with all their heart. Share your own path to Christian faith, and may you also illuminate the steps for new believers in Christ.

Bless your heart.

Before we end this blog, allow us to leave you with a few reminders. Your talent, personality, and complex psyche are gifts given to you intentionally. You are created beautifully in His image, and you’re here for a divine purpose.