March 23rd - The Dart of Doubt

Paul says our shield of faith effectively extinguishes Satan’s fiery darts, so let’s talk about one of his most effective darts — DOUBT. It worked when he asked Eve, “Did God really say …?” (Genesis 3:1 NIV). If only she had responded with truth, we wouldn’t be in such trouble.

When Satan tries to distract us with doubt, one of the best extinguishing truths is “In the beginning God …” (Genesis 1:1). When doubt tries to creep in, counter with the creation. Go outside and look at the stars. There are so many stars, we don’t even know how many there are. Yet, the Word tells us He calls them all by name. It takes our breath away. The universe could not have just happened! There has to be a God!

If it’s daytime, examine the unbelievable intricacies of nature. Watch the tiny ants as they scurry about, touching their antennae as they communicate some kind of message and hurry on their way. Or watch a spider become aware of your presence and race off to find the nearest hiding place. How can there be “thinking” skills in such tiny little creatures? There has to be a Creator!

Or re-read the account of how God rescued the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 7-14). This account was written by Moses who actually witnessed those amazing signs and wonders! They really happened! There has to be a God who created, and is actively involved with His creation. That same God is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).

Let’s remind ourselves of His truths that are especially meaningful to each of us. Grounded in the truth of His Word, let’s gird our loins, prepared to stand firm in this, His battle. Let’s ask Him to help us detect and douse those fiery darts of doubt. Then let’s pray confidently in renewed faith, knowing our prayers have been answered even if we don’t ever get to see it, because we walk by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7).

Today’s Action:

Let’s read Proverbs 23 together, turning our back on doubt, and choosing to apply His instruction to our hearts and minds today.

“Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge.”

(Proverbs 23:12)