Imagine being known for your doubts more than your faith. People whisper your name, but it’s always tied to a single moment of weakness. For Thomas, the disciple, this was his reality. We often hear him called “Doubting Thomas,” but what if I told you his story isn’t just about doubt—it’s about perseverance, transformation, and finding unshakable strength in God’s promises?
Thomas wasn’t just the skeptic; he was also the one who was willing to die with Jesus according to John 11:16. (“Therefore Thomas, who is called Didymus, said to his fellow disciples, ‘Let us also go, so that we may die with Him.’”) He was bold, passionate, and searching for truth. Yes, he struggled when he didn’t understand, but when Jesus met him in his doubt, Thomas responded with one of the most profound declarations of faith in John 20 verse 28: “My Lord and my God!” (Thomas answered and said to Him, ‘My Lord and my God!’ John 20:28)
We can learn 3 lessons from the story of Thomas:
- Faith Grows Through Questions – Thomas didn’t walk away from Jesus because he struggled. Instead, he stayed, wrestled, and found the truth. We don’t have to fear our questions—God meets us in them.
- God is Patient with Our Process – Jesus didn’t reject Thomas for needing proof. Instead, He gave him what he needed to believe. God is not in a hurry—He is patient, and He walks with us as we grow.
- Belief Leads to Boldness – After encountering the risen Christ, Thomas didn’t stay in doubt. He went on to take the Gospel to India, boldly proclaiming Jesus until his martyrdom.
Maybe you’ve had moments like Thomas and me of doubt, times when you questioned God’s promises, didn’t know what God was doing. Remember this truth: God isn’t afraid of your questions. He meets you in them, strengthens you, and calls you deeper. Just like Thomas, you can move from uncertainty to unshaken faith.
Our Encouraging Takeaway: Trust that God’s promises are true, even when you can’t see the whole picture.