Doubt and Unbelief

  A few years after Sarah gives birth to Isaac she demands that Abraham send Hagar and Ishmael away.  In that way she can get rid of the evidence of her previous unbelief and eliminate any contention for Abraham's inheritance.  God assures Abraham that he will take care of Hagar and their son, so Abraham does as Sarah wants.  When Hagar's and Ishmael's supplies run out in the desert, God sends a heavenly messenger to provide for them and to reassure them that Ishmael will be the father of a great nation (Genesis 21:8-21).
  Like Sarah, who among us wants signs of our unbelief around to remind us on a daily basis that we didn't trust what God had promised?  I surely don't.  I like to pretend that I've always been a stalwart believer in everything God has said, and I have never questioned or doubted.  The truth is I probably doubt something every day.
  Let's look at what has happened in the story, though.  Neither Abraham nor Sarah is reproved for their doubts.  God provides for Hagar and Ishmael. God keeps his promises.
  Since we are in Holy Week, I'll make comparisons around the death of Jesus.  Peter doubts and denies he even knows Jesus.  Peter goes on to be a great man of God.  After the resurrection, the apostle Thomas doubts that Jesus is risen.  Thomas goes on to be a great man of God.  
  For reflection:  How can I overcome my doubts?
  Let us pray.  Jesus, I'm having a hard time believing . . . .  Help my unbelief.

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