THEME: “TOUGH TIMES NEVER LAST, TOUGH PEOPLE DO”
Read Luke 7:18-28
THE VALLEY OF DOUBT AND INDECISION
Key Verse: “And John, calling two of his disciples to him, sent them to Jesus, saying, “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?” (Luke 7:19 NKJV).
Tough times could have a negative impact on some Christians. Instead of bringing them closer to God, hard times could make some Christians begin to doubt God’s credibility. When some Christians experience unanswered prayers, wait for long for answered prayers or for results to their expectations, they may begin to doubt and entertain all kinds of thoughts about God.
When John was in prison, he expected Jesus to come and free him, but he did not. When doubt began to set in he had to send some of his disciples to ask Jesus some questions “And John, calling two of his disciples to him, sent them to Jesus, saying, “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?” (Luke 7:19 NKJV).
Jesus responded to John’s emissaries by performing some miracles to convince them that he was the Messiah and thereafter he sent them back to John to tell him what they had seen. “And that very hour He cured many of infirmities, afflictions, and evil spirits; and to many blind, He gave sight. Jesus answered and said to them, “Go and tell John the things you have seen and heard: that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have the gospel preached to them. And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me.” (Luke 7:21-23 NKJV).
Christ’s miracles at this point in time were to convince John and his emissaries that he was who he claimed to be. During tough times, God does certain miracles to convince us that he is still with us. Soon after the emissaries left, Jesus began to commend John and to praise his qualities.
Jesus’ statement, “And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me” reminds us that we should be careful how we doubt the credibility of God when tough times arise. Some backslid from that point. Tough times are bound to arise at one time or another. When we find ourselves in the valley of doubt or indecision, then that is the time to remember the mercies of God, that is the time to remember his faithfulness and remember his past works.
The Psalmist went through a period of doubt and indecision. This was why he wrote this true to life Psalm.
“Lord, what wounds me most is that it’s somehow my fault that you’ve changed your heart toward me and I no longer see the years of the Mighty One and your right hand of power. Yet I could never forget all your miracles, my God, as I remember all your wonders of old. I ponder all you’ve done, Lord, musing on all your miracles. It’s here in your presence, in your sanctuary, where I learn more of your ways. For holiness is revealed in everything you do. Lord, you’re the one and only, the great and glorious God! Your display of wonders, miracles, and power makes the nations acknowledge you. By your glory-bursts you’ve rescued us over and over. Just ask the sons of Jacob or the sons of Joseph and they will tell you! And all of us, your beloved ones, know that it’s true! Pause in his presence” (Psalms 77:10-15 TPT).
PRAYER: Father, always help me whenever I begin to doubt you for any reason.
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