THE 'CRISIS OF FAITH'

The term 'crisis of faith' is often used to describe the doubt and confusion a Christian may encounter at some point in his walk of faith. 

Uncertainty, sadness, and even fits of anger can rise to the surface as a believer questions what he once considered worthy of his wholehearted allegiance. 

When it occurs, we should ask ourselves:

1. In what have I put my trust? 

Faith is only as good as its object. If you've placed it in anything other than the finished work of Jesus Christ, disappointment and heartache are inevitable. Surrendering everything to His Lordship is vital to your spiritual wellbeing as you navigate this unforgiving wilderness.  

 2. What brought it about? 

The death of someone close, a betrayal by a spiritual mentor, a broken relationship, or some other devastating loss can cause you to question whether God is 'real' (and if so, why is He seemingly uninterested). It is good to identify the source of the pain and bring that to the Lord. 

3. What do I believe I deserve and did not get? 

At the root of most crises of faith is the idea that something should have happened and didn't. It is the unspoken assumption that we know more than God does. We determine what 'should' have taken place, and somehow the Lord owes it to us to conform reality to our expectations. 

Having honestly answered these questions, there is a profound truth shared by A. W. Tozer to take in ... It is doubtful whether God can bless a man greatly until He has hurt him deeply.  

Most Christians who have walked with God for any length of time have experienced a crisis of faith. What feels to us like 'the end' is often 'the beginning' of a new chapter ... Consider it nothing but joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you fall into various trials. Be assured that the testing of your faith [through experience] produces endurance [leading to spiritual maturity, and inner peace]. (James 1:2-3)

A 'crisis of faith' is sometimes necessary to shatter our childish illusions about God and discover who He really is. It can bring your soul to a place of such desperation that you are willing to do things His way, no matter the cost ... casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. (2 Corinthians 10:5)

Don't be afraid to be honest with God when you struggle with faith. Even though you feel like you've distanced yourself from Him ... He has not left your side.