Digging Deeper: Take My Doubts to Jesus
20 And when the men had come to him, they said, “John the Baptist has sent us to you, saying, ‘Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?’” 21 In that hour he healed many people of diseases and plagues and evil spirits, and on many who were blind he bestowed sight
Luke 7:20-21 (ESV)
TAKE MY DOUBTS TO JESUS
In the classic baseball movie “Field of Dreams,” Ray Kinsella (Kevin Costner) complains to Shoeless Joe Jackson (Ray Liotta) – “I did it all. I listened to the voices, I did what they told me, and not once did I ask what’s in it for me.” Joe’s response – “What are you saying, Ray?” Ray sheepishly replies – “I’m saying, what’s in it for me?” Ray did what he was called to do, yet the end result was not what he expected.
John the Baptist knows his calling – a voice crying in the wilderness (Isa. 40:3). He prophesies the coming Messiah – the conqueror of the occupying Roman Empire. When John hears that Jesus is preaching a different message, John sends two of his disciples to Jesus to assuage his doubts and to elucidate his unmet expectations. John reaches out to the source to calm his fears and to reassure himself that his mission and his message are not in vain.
We too have the ability to take our doubts and expectations to the source. Jesus wants to hear our doubts and longs to reassure us that He is in control. One way to accomplish this is through prayer. As a result of the atoning work of Christ, we now have access to “confidently” approach the “throne of grace” (Heb. 4:16). Do not be afraid to ask Jesus the tough questions – I think His behavior during His trial clearly demonstrates His ability to withstand scrutiny!
Jesus already knows what is in your heart, but talk to Him regardless – just remember to patiently and humbly listen for His response. Let Him reconcile your doubts and reset your expectations. Give up control of your life to Him – you will never feel more in control than when you give up control!
Digging Deeper (er):
Mark 9:21-24; John 20:24-29; Luke 24:36-40.
Phil Meade is a father of 3, and grandfather of 6. He has a Masters Degree in Theological Studies from Liberty University, and lives in Acworth. He has led various small groups throughout his 25 years attending NS. He retired after 8 years as an Air Force pilot, and 33 years as a Delta pilot.