Double-Mindedness

"But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind." James1:6  NKJV 

Justin Torres of unlockingscripture.com writes: ''Doubting is at the root of double-mindedness. It is the driving force that leads to a divided mind, often manifesting in emotional instability and a lack of peace. The enemy exploits our doubt to undermine our faith. This ongoing inner conflict can tear a person between two opposing forces, leading to double-mindedness.'

So let us look at this in more detail. See if you can recognise yourself in the notes below:

Inconsistency in Prayer and Worship One moment a person is switched on to this subject, attending various meetings all over the place. This may not help them because, some churches tend to handle prayer and worship differently, such as the free churches and pentecostals. This can lead to confusion, even though we are worshipping the same God.

Indecision in Decision Making Many people find it hard to make a decision. This may be because the person may have become institutionalised through military service or time spent in prison. Where decisions were mostly made for them, to suddenly find they are the one who is responsible now, can be difficult.

Lack of Trust in God's Plan Where a person has had people making decisions for them, they have taken for granted what is and what is not. Since then, they learn of God's plan for their life and they may be faced with, 'What if it goes wrong?' or 'How can I trust this faith thing?' Therefore, they need a firmer foundation to be able to overcome this stronghold.

Tendency to Compromise with Sin Initially they may struggle with well established sin that may be difficult to change. When they do sin, there can be an overwhelming feeling of guilt that makes them feel that they are not good enough and give up. This can remain a stronghold for a very long time, even with long established Christians.

Unstable Emotions and Attitudes The soul is made up of our Mind, Will and Emotions and Psalm 103:1-5 is a good place to start with people who have problems such as we are discussing. We never know what has happened in a person's background and so we need to be careful that we don't become judgemental. If a person has lots of doubts, they are more likely to have come from a painful area in their life. There may be deep-rooted hurts within them; things that they find very hard to re-visit or talk about. Prayer, acceptance and love is a good place to start with them until they begin to trust you. Don't ever rush this.

Maintaining Relationships Just the fact that we are discussing the above shows that they may have had a broken relationship and since then find it difficult to trust anyone. People who have been hurt may make hidden vows such as: 'No one will ever hurt me again'. And this becomes a stronghold that we may find difficult to work through. Again, it calls for patience and a softly softly approach until they feel like speaking about it - if they can

This discussion has only just skimmed the surface and is designed to give you a better understanding  of what is going on in a person's life. It may though, be going on in your life too. You may have been a Christian for many years and yet, you still carry around baggage from the past. Decide to do something about it as soon as you can. Find someone you can trust. Failing that, you can always email me in strictest of confidence: grahame.howard@hotmail.co.uk

Don't carry the baggage around for much more.

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now:

'Lord Jesus, I have sinned and I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today.

In Jesus' Name. Amen'

Copyright 2024 Grahame Howard.                                

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