Navigating Doubt: Is God Real?

Every generation wrestles with the same ancient question: Is God real? For some, the question rises from intellectual curiosity. For others, it comes from deep pain, disappointment, or a sense that God feels distant. Doubt isn’t new, and it certainly isn’t a sign of weak faith. In fact, Scripture shows us that doubt is often the doorway to deeper understanding.

One of the most honest moments in the Bible comes from a father desperate for his son’s healing. He cries out to Jesus, “. . . I believe; help my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24 – NKJV). That tension—belief and unbelief living side by side—captures the human experience. Many people today stand in that same space. They want to believe, but life has given them reasons to question.

Some doubt because they can’t see God. Yet Scripture reminds us that “The heavens declare the glory of God . . .” (Psalm 19:1 – NKJV). Creation itself whispers His fingerprints. The order of the universe, the complexity of life, the longing for meaning—these are not accidents. They are signposts pointing beyond themselves.

Others doubt because of suffering. They wonder how a good God allows pain, injustice, or loss. The Bible doesn’t shy away from this struggle. Even David cried out, “How long, O Lord? . . .” (Psalm 13:1). The presence of suffering doesn’t disprove God. Instead, it reveals our deep wish for a world made right. This is a wish God Himself promises to fulfill. Revelation 21:4 assures us that one day He will wipe every tear from our eyes.

“And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.”

Still others doubt because they feel unworthy or unseen. Yet Scripture speaks directly to this fear: “The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart . . .” (Psalm 34:18). God is not distant. He is not indifferent. He is near, even when we don’t feel Him.

What encourages me is that God never condemns honest seekers. Jesus welcomed questions. Thomas doubted the resurrection. He did not believe until he saw Jesus for himself. Instead of rebuking him, Jesus invited him closer (John 20:27). “Then He said to Thomas, “Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand here, and put it into My side. Do not be unbelieving, but believing.” Doubt, when brought to God, becomes a bridge—not a barrier.

So what do people’s doubts about God’s existence mean for us today? They remind us to listen with compassion, to speak with humility, and to point gently toward the hope we’ve found. Faith isn’t the absence of questions; it’s the courage to bring those questions to the One who can handle them.

In a world full of uncertainty, God continues to extend an invitation to every searching heart. “. . . you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:13). And that promise is as true today as it has ever been.

Prayer:

Father, thank You for being patient with our questions and gentle with our doubts. When our hearts feel uncertain, draw us closer to You. Help us see Your presence in creation, Your goodness in Scripture, and Your love in the cross. Strengthen those who are searching. Comfort those who are hurting. Reveal Yourself to every heart that longs to know You. Lead us into deeper faith, deeper trust, and deeper confidence in who You are. In Jesus’ name I pray, AMEN!