"The Dart of Doubt"

 

Satan's Destructive Dart Series - Matthew 14:29-31 "And HE said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to JESUS. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, LORD save me. And immediately JESUS stretched forth HIS hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt ?"

     Satan often uses doubt as an offensive weapon against us. Why do we question GOD ? The Bible gives several reasons, and it illustrates such doubt with examples of historical men and women who faced this same destructive dart. First, we doubt because we are fearful -- we get our eyes focused on the circumstances around us, as Peter did in today's text. Second, we have misgivings because we do not always understand the big picture -- why GOD does what HE does; such was the case with John the Baptist prior to his death (Matthew 11:1-3 pictured above). Third, we doubt because at times we are besieged by overwhelming difficulties, as were the children of Israel in the wilderness (Exodus 17:1-7). Fourth, we are skeptical because we sometimes blatantly choose to reject the truth, like the fool who denies the existence of GOD (Psalm 14:1). Fifth, we doubt because we become discouraged and feel as though we are all alone, as was true of Elijah who fled for his life from the wicked Queen Jezebel (1st.Kings 19:4,14). Sixth, we question GOD because, like Asaph, we see the prosperity of the wicked and wonder why the righteous suffer (Psalm 73:1-13,11-17). Finally, we doubt because we have improper expectations, just like the two disciples traveling to Emmaus (Luke 24:21 pictured below).

     In every instance, GOD exhorts the believer to know HIS WORD, to rest in HIS promises that are based upon HIS immutable and omnipotent character, and to exercise greater faith. You see, it is only with the shield of faith that we can conquer, or "quench," this fiery dart of doubt. Get to know the LORD better through HIS written WORD. Then, simply take HIM at HIS WORD and keep your eyes on HIM. Faith is the victory ! MDC

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.  www.featoday.org

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation