Did God really say?

Scripture for today: Matthew 14:31

Eighteenth century German writer and statesman Johann Wolfgang von Goeth once said, “Give me the benefit of your convictions, if you have any; but keep your doubts to yourself, for I have enough of my own.”

We all struggle with our doubts from time to time in this crazy, mixed-up, fallen world in which we reside. From insignificant matters like our team winning the game to significant issues such as heaven and hell, we all find ourselves feeling our way through the fog at one time or another.

The truth is, we struggle with doubt because we have an arch-enemy who thrives on messing with our minds, conjuring up as much doubt as he possibly can. It’s a favorite tactic of his, one he began using by asking Eve in the Garden, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the Garden’?” (Genesis 3:1). 

One key antidote to the poison of doubt is assurance – assurance that you’re saved, assurance the Holy Spirit lives in you, assurance that God is able and that Jesus is with you always.

May these words guide you throughout this day: “Do not throw away your confidence, which has great reward” (Hebrews 10:35).

This devotion is based from Gaddis' book "Manage Your Emotions."