Do you ever find yourself questioning your faith? If so, you’re not alone. Some doubt is normal in your walk of faith; doubt period is not necessarily a bad thing in the long run; it can even lead to a deeper comprehension of your belief and a stronger trust in God. So what does it look like to follow doubt with grace and faith? Faith doesn’t mean you’ll never doubt. This means seeking God, even in the questions. In Mark 9:24, a man uttered to Jesus, “I believe; help my unbelief!” Jesus didn’t cast him aside for his doubts, He met him where he was and brought healing. It reminds us that God welcomes our honesty and that he meets us in our struggles. The heroes of faith struggled with doubt. Thomas did not believe in the resurrection of Jesus until he saw his nail marks. Even John the Baptist doubted that Jesus was the Messiah while in a dark moment.

These stories remind us that doubt does not disqualify us from God’s love or His plans. Doubt is not the enemy of faith, but much more often the starting point of deeper insight. God promises us that, as Jeremiah 29:13 states, “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Honest questions bring honest answers, and through them your relationship with God may deepen. Perhaps the greatest mistake people make when struggling with doubt is to go it alone.

The book of Proverbs reminds us, “Iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17, NIV). Discussing your questions with trusted friends, mentors, or church leaders can provide clarity and encouragement. He does speak to us through His Word, but so often He will use others to impart His truths into our lives.

Here at The Life Shift Church, we believe that doubt is not to be feared but an opportunity to be open to growth! If you’re struggling with questions, understand that God is big enough to handle them. We’re here to walk alongside you, pray for you, and help you find the answers you’re looking for. Doubt does not mean you don’t have faith, it means you want something true. That’s where real faith starts. So let us journey together, believing that this is all part of His plan for us to know Him more.

Forgiveness: How to Forgive When It Feels Impossible

By Pastor Roxanne Gayle, JD, The Life Shift Church

Forgiveness is one of the most profound and challenging aspects of the human experience. It’s a topic that resonates deeply with many of us, yet when faced with the pain of betrayal, loss, or hurt, the idea of forgiving can feel impossible. However, understanding the process of forgiveness and its importance can lead us toward healing and freedom.

Unforgiveness can be a heavy burden to carry. It festers within us, often manifesting as bitterness, anger, or resentment. These feelings can cloud our judgment, hinder our relationships, and even affect our physical health. The weight of unresolved conflict can lead to stress, anxiety, and a sense of disconnection from ourselves and others.

Forgiveness is not about condoning the actions that caused us pain; it’s about releasing ourselves from the grip of those actions. It’s a conscious decision to let go of the desire for revenge or retribution. Forgiveness is an act of grace, both towards others and ourselves. It allows us to reclaim our power and move forward in life without being tethered to past hurts.

The Process of Forgiveness

Acknowledge Your Feelings: The first step in forgiveness is to recognize and validate your feelings. It’s okay to feel hurt, angry, or betrayed. Allow yourself to experience these emotions without judgment. Journaling or talking with a trusted friend can help you process your feelings.

Reflect on the Situation: Take time to understand the context of the hurt. Consider the motivations and circumstances that led to the actions that wounded you. This doesn’t excuse the behavior, but it can provide insight and foster empathy.

Make a Choice: Forgiveness is a choice. Decide that you want to forgive, even if you don’t feel ready. This decision is often the most challenging part, as it requires vulnerability and courage.

Communicate: If it feels safe and appropriate, consider expressing your feelings to the person who hurt you. This can be a powerful step in the healing process. Whether through a letter, a conversation, or a simple acknowledgment, sharing your experience can provide closure.

Release the Burden: Letting go of the pain and resentment is crucial. This may involve prayer, meditation, or simply a conscious effort to shift your focus away from the hurt. Remember, forgiveness is a gift you give to yourself.

Seek Support: Surround yourself with positive influences. Whether through friends, family, or a support group, having a network can provide encouragement and accountability as you navigate the forgiveness process.

Practice Self-Forgiveness: Often, we hold onto guilt or shame related to our own actions in difficult situations. It’s important to forgive ourselves for any perceived shortcomings. Acknowledge your humanity and allow yourself the grace to move forward.

Forgiveness is essential for our emotional and spiritual well-being. It opens the door to healing, allowing us to cultivate peace and joy in our lives. When we forgive, we break the chains of our past and create space for new experiences and relationships.

In the words of Nelson Mandela, “Forgiveness liberates the soul. It removes fear. That is why it is such a powerful weapon.” Embracing forgiveness can transform our lives, enabling us to live fully in the present rather than being shackled to past grievances.

Forgiveness is a journey, not a destination. It may take time, and there may be setbacks along the way. However, the path to forgiveness is worth the effort. As we work through our pain and embrace the process, we find strength, resilience, and ultimately, freedom.

At The Life Shift Church, we believe in the power of forgiveness as a transformative force in our lives. If you’re struggling with the concept of forgiveness or need support on your journey, we invite you to join us for our upcoming services and workshops. Together, let’s explore the depths of forgiveness and discover the healing it can bring.

For more insights and resources on forgiveness and personal growth, visit our website or connect with us on social media. Remember, you are not alone on this journey.