Every Christian youth encounters moments when their faith is tested. For some, it may be unanswered prayers for healing, the disappointment of failing an exam despite hard work, or the struggle of witnessing corruption and injustice in society. In such times, doubt creeps in with whispers like, “Maybe God is not listening. Maybe His promises aren’t true.”
This tension between faith and doubt is not uncommon in the Christian life. While faith anchors believers in God’s promises, doubt tries to uproot them. The real question is not whether doubt will come – it certainly will – but how the Christian youth responds when it does.
Faith, according to Hebrews 11:1, is “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” It is trusting God even when the outcome is unclear. Abraham left his homeland without knowing where he was going (Genesis 12), and the woman with the issue of blood declared, “If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed” (Mark 5:28). Faith is rooted in God’s unchanging character, not in circumstances.
Doubt, on the other hand, is the hesitation that arises when one questions God’s promises. It is not the absence of faith but the presence of fear and uncertainty. In Matthew 14:29–31, Peter began to walk on water by faith, but when he focused on the wind and waves, doubt caused him to sink. Like Peter, many youths stumble when they focus on their problems rather than on God’s power.
Faith and doubt, therefore, constantly wrestle within. Faith says, “God can.” Doubt replies, “But what if He doesn’t?” James 1:6 cautions that the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, “blown and tossed by the wind.” Faith brings stability, while doubt breeds instability.
To overcome doubt, the Christian youth must first know God’s Word, for “faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God” (Romans 10:17). They must also learn to pray honestly, as the father in Mark 9:24 cried out, “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!” Remembering God’s past faithfulness, as David did before confronting Goliath (1 Samuel 17:37), strengthens trust in present battles. Staying connected to fellow believers also provides encouragement (Hebrews 10:25). Ultimately, faith is not always a feeling – it is a deliberate choice to trust God’s promises, even when circumstances suggest otherwise.
In conclusion, both faith and doubt will present themselves, but one will prevail depending on where believers place their focus. Doubt looks at the storm, but faith looks at the Savior. Doubt shakes, but faith anchors. As Paul affirms, “For we walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7).
The next time doubt whispers, may Christian youth confidently respond: “I trust God.”
Written by Elder Gideon Annan (Downtown District Youth Leader)
