Over the past few weeks I’ve argued that doubt is normal. Doubt doesn’t indicate that something is wrong with what we believe. Rather, it indicates that we are human. There are a variety of things that can cause doubt in the life of the believer: sin, finitude, fatigue, stress, the expansion of knowledge, or even bullies. There can be any number of causes of doubt. But what should we do about it? How should we handle our doubt? I’ll offer a few pointers over the next few weeks, but for now let me mention just one: Community!

One of the most important things you can do during a time of doubt is seek and maintain relationships within a community of believers. It might feel awkward and unnatural to do so, but this is a moment where the church is vital. But, let me be clear, I’m not simply suggesting that you “just go to church”. Being a part of the church during this time is vital, but it is also vital that you keep some specific things in mind during this time.

1. Don’t isolate yourself. Most people want to remove themselves from community during a season of doubt. Sometimes it is because they feel like no one will understand, or it might be that they simply don’t enjoy being with other believers. But this dangerous. This is a time when believers need to surround themselves with friends.

2. Allow others to pray for and encourage you. Not everyone in the church will know how to handle your questions, but they will know how to pray and love you. They can provide comfort and encouragement while you walk through these difficult moments. As I’ve had to deal with doubt, my friends and family, even those who didn’t know what to say, helped me tremendously just by being there and showing me love.

3. Find those who know how to think. This is also a time when we must find people within the body that know how to remain calm and think. It may be that they’ve never studied apologetics or thought about your specific question, but if they know how to think they will be enormously valuable to you. Find these folks and the time to sit with them. Open up about what you are thinking and let them share the burden.

4. Listen to those who have been there. In many cases, once we open up about what we are struggling with we begin to find others who have been there and asked the same kind of question. Find these folks and listen to what they have to say. They’ve been there before and they’ve worked through it. Ask for their guidance and help.

Doubting may be normal, but that fact doesn’t necessarily make it easier. What we need during these times is people that can help us. This help may come from a variety of different people within the body of Christ. But, I’ve learned over the years that the Body is a great place to begin our journey of dealing with our doubt. Keep pressing on. I’m praying with you and for you this week!