Many Christians, as well as members of other religious groups, feel anxiety, guilt and despair about what they call a "loss of faith." But serious doubt is confirmation of faith. It indicates the seriousness of the concern, its unconditional character.

Paul Tillich, The Dynamics of Faith

We've all lost things at one time or another, money, friends, lovers, car keys. All of these things are important and when they're lost we feel anxiety, guilt and despair.

I find it interesting then, that when people lose faith, they give up on it so easily. When we lose money, friends, lovers and car keys we try our best to find them, rectify the situation and get back on track. Not so with our faith. We tend to not fight for our faith, especially as gay, lesbian, bi or transgendered Christians. When doubts arise, we too easily say, "okay, fine, nothing left for me here."

Tillich reminds us it is that doubt is confirmation of our faith, not evidence that we don't have any faith. It is through doubting our faith, and exploring the reasons for those doubts that we strengthen our faith. Instead of giving up when doubts arise, we must dedicate ourselves to recovering our faith.

We are seriously concerned when we lose other valuables. We should have that concern and more when we feel a loss of faith. Our faith is our foundation. If we feel shaky in this area, how unstable will the rest of our lives be?

When doubts arise, know that your faith is being confirmed. Don't be afraid to doubt your faith, for it is through the doubts that we strengthen our faith foundation. Explore the doubt, explore the reasons why you're feeling the anxiety, guilt and despair. In the end, you'll find your faith stronger for having been tested.

Blessings,
Candace