Week 21 - Karen White - Mark 9

Hey everyone, I’m Karen White! I’m so glad you could join me on my back porch today as we dive into the Word together.

This week, we’re looking at Mark 9 to talk about something we all face: doubt and unbelief.

Have you ever felt like you needed to "fix" your doubts or have everything figured out before you could bring them to God? I want to share two stories from the Bible that show us we don't have to do that.

• The Father's Honest Plea: In Mark 9, a father brings his son, who is suffering from a "mute spirit," to Jesus after the disciples were unable to help. When the father asks Jesus for help "if you can do anything," Jesus reminds him that all things are possible to those who believe. I love the father's immediate, tearful response: "Lord, I believe. Help my unbelief." It shows that faith and doubt can actually coexist.

• Thomas' Need for Experience: We often call him "doubting Thomas," but he was really just being honest about what he needed. In John 20, Thomas insisted he wouldn't believe in the resurrection unless he personally saw and touched Jesus' wounds. When Jesus appeared, He didn't chastise Thomas; He invited him to touch His scars, meeting him exactly where he was.

The big takeaway I want to leave you with is that Jesus wants your doubts, your fears, and your "I don't knows." He loves you and wants you to come to Him just as you are. Being honest with God about where you are is the first step toward letting Him heal those spots in you.

Thank you for spending this time with me. I hope you have a truly great day!