How does doubt affect our faith as Christians?

Doubt often arises from a misconception of God’s character and His promises, as exemplified in Thomas’s experience in John 20. It can lead to a fractured understanding of grace and assurance, causing believers to focus on their own shortcomings rather than Christ’s sufficiency. This fixation on personal experience over Christ’s word can result in spiritual stagnation and a misguided sense of self-reliance. However, through grace, believers are called to recognize their doubts and bring them before the Lord, allowing the truth of Scripture to combat their disbelief. This process can deepen one’s faith as believers learn to trust not in their own understanding but in the infallibility of God’s promises.