WHEREFORE DIDST THOU DOUBT?

 

EVENING DEVOTION by James Smith

SEPTEMBER 6

 

Matthew 14:31

And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand,

and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith,

wherefore didst thou doubt?

 
This is the language of reproof, it was addressed to Peter, but to whom is it not applicable?
 
Who of us have not doubted?
 
Who does not often doubt?
 
Who considers doubting as sinful?
 
But it is so.
 
Are not our doubts the offspring of unbelief?
 
Do they reflect on the love, care, constancy, and faithfulness of our Redeemer?
 
Could he speak plainer than he has in his word? Could he do more to lay a firm foundation for our confidence, peace, and joy?
 
Has he not promised to receive, pardon, and bless every coming sinner?
 
Has he not given us instances of the manner in which he proves his care, fulfils his word, and answers the prayers of his people, in the historical portions of his word?
 
Has he spoken?
 
Is he worthy of credit?
 
Did he ever deceive?
 
Can he trifle with an immortal soul?
 
Is he not unchangeable?
 
Then “wherefore didst thou doubt?”
 
Make no excuse for thy doubts, but at once acknowledge that they are sinful, and seek grace, that you may trust in the Lord with all your heart, and trust in him at all times.
 
Doubts weaken the soul, exhaust the spirits, and hinder cheerful obedience—strive against them.
 
Within are fears, without a storm,
And foes are round about;
But Jesus will his word perform,
Then wherefore dost thou doubt?
 
James Smith