God Gives Us What We Need

Thomas was a disciple who doubted that Jesus had risen from the dead.  He stated he would only believe when he saw the scars on His hands, put His fingers through them and placed his hand in the wound in His side. 

A week later the disciples were together again indoors, and Thomas was with them. The doors were locked, but Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and look at my hands; then reach out your hand and put it in my side. Stop your doubting, and believe!”

 Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!”

John 20:26-28

I am ashamed to think of the many times I have doubted.  Not necessarily in Christ's existence, like Thomas, but in His ability to help me through a situation or circumstance.  Many of us are all guilty of it.  And if doubt isn't our weakness then something else is.  Friends, God knows exactly what we need to hear or see to help us along in our faith.  He knows the weak spot in our faith.  Just like in Thomas' case, God will give us what we need to strengthen our faith in Him and remove that weak spot for good.  But beware, satan also knows that weak spot and he will be sure to attack it when given the chance.  

The problem that arises is we sometimes get so consumed with our problem that even when God is working we don't see Him.  Our eyes are so focused on our circumstance that even God's work falls on blind eyes and deaf ears.  One can get so lost in her disappointment and worry that she can't see through her fear and pain.  God can be working over time to help her, giving her exactly what she needs, but she isn't looking for Him so His presence goes unnoticed.  

Thomas had heard from His closest friends that Jesus was alive but he was so consumed by his loss and sadness that he couldn't see.  His friends were so happy and probably couldn't hide their excitement over Jesus' resurrection, but Thomas was unable to see that because he was too sad.  He was choosing to live by his knowledge instead by faith.  

Thomas refused to believe in Jesus' resurrection until it could be proven by seeing Him and feeling Him.  Have you set limits to your faith in God?  Will you only believe when He gives you a certain sign or shows you a certain scripture?  Friends, don't limit God.  Don't waste time telling Him what you need to believe Him.  He already knows what you need.  In fact, he could already be giving it to you.  Focus on God and everything good.  You have to live intentionally and look for God's work in every circumstance or you might miss out on something amazing!  Don't get left out of the excitement and happiness because you are looking for the wrong thing or in the wrong places.  Just trust that God knows you, He knows what you need and when you need it.  Wait on Him and watch for Him instead of watching your problems.