There are times in our spiritual journey when we are filled with doubts and questions about God, our life of faith, or how we are to follow Christ. There are life events that call into question where God is at work. God seems absent. People at this stage can become confused, disillusioned, discouraged or stuck in their faith. Not to worry–this is normal and Jesus talked with his disciples about it when he was preparing them for his death and resurrection. The disciples were so sure that they believed and could weather the coming storm. Jesus knew differently. Hear his comforting words from John 16:31-33 (NRSV).
Jesus answered them, “Do you now believe? The hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each one to his home, and you will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone because the Father is with me. I have said this to you so that in me you may have peace. In the world you face persecution, but take courage: I have conquered the world!”
People can find themselves stuck at the wall at anytime on their spiritual journey. However, the first time someone comes up against this wall is usually between the Follow stage and the Come and Be stage. It’s so hard to begin to surrender ourselves to God. We just want to govern our lives in our own way. People who find themselves at the wall need help to move past the obstacles to a deeper relationship with God. So if you find yourself at this place, you can try some of these opportunities.
- Pray even when it seems that God is not listening. Be honest with God about what you are thinking and feeling. Wait quietly for God’s answer for you. It might feel like a sense of peace or a sense of comfort or a loving presence.
- Read the Psalms. The Psalms are full of laments, complaints, disappointment, anger, revenge, and discouragement. It’s comforting to know that the scriptures are full of a description of people who were sitting at the wall.
- Talk to a friend about what you are feeling. If you have a friend who is at the Come and Be or Abide and Bear Fruit stage, they will listen well and offer you assurances that God is walking with you and you will not always feel lost or abandoned.
- Call the church office and ask to speak with one of the pastors. Your pastors are good listeners, too. They can help walk you through your work at the wall.
Jesus assured the disciples that even though they were facing tough times, they should take courage. Jesus had overcome so much and Jesus would offer them peace and strength for their current troubles. If we go to Jesus, Jesus will help us overcome even the most troublesome difficulty in our life.