CONNECTING POINT: Help My Unbelief

Biblical arguments and debates in Christian circles about “belief” have abounded over the years, especially when it comes to faith and healing. Here’s my two cents…as humans we are rather frail and at times even the best among us doubt God. This is true of the disciples who sat directly under Christ’s teaching, they watched him heal people and stand up to the Jewish opposition. Some will almost chastise Thomas for doubting the risen Savior who stood physically before him since he insisted on touching Christ’s nail scars. I’m not going to be one of those polished preachers or antagonists who talk down to people when they struggle with doubt, I will give grace just like Jesus did. I too, have moments of unbelief.

In the first chapter of Luke, we read of a couple’s very personal struggle. Zechariah and his wife Elizabeth longed to have children but remained childless for many years. However, they continued to honor God in their daily life. While Zechariah was conducting his duties as a priest on behalf of the nation of Israel and offering prayers in the Holy of Holies, he was in for quite a surprise. “Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear. But the angel said to him: ‘Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John,’” (Luke 1:11-13). This is a rather unique encounter; an unanswered prayer being answered at an unexpected moment.

Notice Zechariah’s response, “How can I be sure of this? I am an old man, and my wife is well along in years?” (vs. 18). Now let’s be honest, wouldn’t most of us have a similar comeback? As readers of this account, we know the full story, including the results. The situation is often different when you’re the person in the middle of the story. Gabriel the angel, informs Zechariah that he will be mute until the child is born because of his unbelief. Some look at this as a form of punishment, I view the matter a bit differently. Silence can be beneficial and teach a person to be more introspective, and value our faith.

Can you imagine the conversations Zechariah had with Elizabeth when he could finally speak? Their story sounds familiar to Abraham and Sarah’s life, doesn’t it?

Whatever the circumstance we must learn to trust God, despite our unbelief or God’s timetable. Certainly, God can do the impossible. God may answer your prayer. Sometimes he may make us wait and other times the answer might be a “no”. Luke’s message is just what the doctor ordered, timely for us today. When God answers an unanswered prayer, we should give him all the praise as Zechariah did (vs. 64).

In Mark 9 a father has a candid conversation with Jesus about his son who had been possessed for several years, he also had doubt. Inquiring about healing he said, “…But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us. ‘If you can?’ said Jesus. ‘Everything is possible for one who believes.’ Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!’” (Mark 9:22-24).

There is nothing wrong with asking the Savior to help us in our unbelief. In fact, doing so proves our need for Him more.