We stand strong in our faith and have accomplished many remarkable things through God’s anointing. Sometimes, others don’t realize that we are recipients of grace just like they are. Beneath it all, we are still human, susceptible to weakness, facing temptation and doubt as anyone would. Though we may fall repeatedly, we rise again by God's strength.
John the Baptist, a man sent by God, was tasked with baptizing and identifying the Messiah. God gave him a specific sign: he would recognize the Christ when he saw the Spirit descend and remain on Him. And indeed, when he saw Jesus approaching, John didn’t rely on family accounts. Instead, he trusted God’s sign, declaring to the crowd that Jesus was the Lamb of God because he had seen the Spirit descend upon Him just as God had foretold.
As written in John 1:29-33:
> “The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world...And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost.”
Later, however, when John was imprisoned, he faced doubt. Despite seeing God’s signs, John’s faith wavered, possibly because he expected the Messiah to free him from his suffering. In his struggle, John sent his disciples to ask Jesus if He truly was the Messiah. Even a prophet like John, who had directly heard from God, faltered in his faith due to his difficult circumstances.
Matthew 11:2-4 tells us:
> “Now when John had heard in the prison the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples, And said unto him, Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another? Jesus answered and said unto them, Go and shew John again those things which ye do hear and see.”
Jesus didn’t criticize John for his doubt. Instead, He pointed John’s disciples to the evidence of His works. Jesus didn’t miraculously free John from prison, but He did affirm His identity through the signs of His ministry: healing the sick, giving sight to the blind, and bringing good news to the poor. Jesus showed that even in tough circumstances, God’s presence remains, and His work continues.
Luke 7:21-23 reminds us:
> “...And Jesus answering said unto them, Go your way, and tell John what things ye have seen and heard; how that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, to the poor the gospel is preached. And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.”
So, for those ministering or struggling today, remember this: doubt can arise, even after we have heard clearly from God. Guard your heart against it, because doubt can spread to those you disciple. Jesus understands our struggles and is with us, even when we face adversity. He may not remove every trial, but He will give you evidence of His presence and remind you of His call.
Today, I pray for all God’s workers to remain steadfast in what God has spoken to them, in Jesus' name. Despite hardships and doubt, know that Christ has not left you. He sees you and will not fail to provide His witness and presence in your life.
