The Daily: Tuesday December 9, 2025

"Go back and report to John what you hear and see: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor."
Matthew 11:4-5

Jesus Doesn't Scold Our Doubts 

When John sent his disciples to ask Jesus if he was truly the Messiah, something remarkable happened. Jesus didn't respond with anger or disappointment. He didn't lecture John about having stronger faith or demand that he stop questioning. Instead, Jesus met John's doubt with gentleness and understanding. This response reveals something profound about God's character. Our questions don't threaten God. Our moments of uncertainty don't diminish God's love for us. When we're struggling to believe, God doesn't turn away in frustration - God draws closer with compassion.

Think about the last time someone responded to your vulnerability with judgment versus understanding. The difference is transformative. Jesus chose the path of understanding. He knew that John's question came from a place of weariness, not rebellion. He recognized that doubt often emerges from deep caring, not from lack of faith. Many of us have been taught to hide our spiritual struggles, to pretend we have more certainty than we actually feel. But Jesus' response to John shows us a different way. We can bring our honest questions to God without fear of rejection. We can admit when we're tired, confused, or disappointed without losing our place in God's family.

Reflection Question
How might your relationship with God change if you truly believed that your doubts and questions are welcome rather than shameful?

Prayer
Jesus, thank you for responding to our doubts with grace instead of judgment. Help me to trust that I can bring all of my questions and struggles to you, knowing that you will meet me with love and understanding. Give me courage to be honest about my faith journey. Amen.