I often see two opposite (and equally destructive) reactions to doubt in the church.

One is to suppress doubts. I’ve talked to young adults who have expressed doubts only to be scolded for their lack of faith or rebuked for asking insolent questions. Of course, that reaction doesn’t work. Doubts that are repressed don’t go away. They only grow.

The other reaction is to celebrate doubt, even fetishize it. Some imply that if you don’t experience serious doubt, it’s a sign of a spiritual or intellectual deficit. They forget that while doubt can be a good thing (the “ants in the pants of faith,” as Frederick Buechner said) it’s also something to ultimately overcome. As Jesus said to Thomas, “Stop doubting and believe!”

That’s why I appreciated Brad East’s take on the topic. He avoids both extremes. As he puts it, Doubt Is a Ladder, Not a Home. Wherever you are on your faith journey, you’ll benefit from his wisdom.

For a more in-depth treatment of the topic, check out our resource on Dealing with Doubt. This 18-page resource is designed to help you address spiritual doubt in your own life and ministry, or to walk alongside another as they struggle with doubt.